Bi-polar disorder?

Question

My friend is happy one second, and unhappy the next. He takes things out on me that aren't my fault, then the next day he apologizes for it. He doesn't sleep - and has a drug problem in the past. He has attempted suicide before. He talks down to me and recently told me that we could never be a couple because he can't talk to me at a certain level.

Why does he say these things to me? Are these signs of being bi-polar?

We are both 27.

Answer 1

yes these are signs of bi-polar. Ifyou really want to continue your friendship, I suggest that you do some research on this disorder and try tobe understanding. People with bi-polar disorder do not want to hurt their friends intentionally. Remember to give distance when it is needed but be there when that is needed aswell. I have a friend who isbi-polar and until I understood the disorder I was hurt and confused about her actions. Now I have an understanding of it and I can accept her for who she is and I am always there for her when she needs it.

Answer 2

There are so many theories as to what causes Bi-polar disorder. There are even things that have shown it has a genetic basis amongst certain groups of people. If he truly has bi-polar disorder, it is not catchy like a cold however. There could have been an event that triggered the onset of this and it just was something inevitable. The most important thing, is that you and your family are there for him. Bi-polar disorder can be a horrible mental illness to deal with. There are many medications that can help, and he needs to see a psychiatrist and a therapist really to get the best results for therapy. Medication works on an individual basis, and some people need what is called an "integrative" approach with different medicines and therapy. Love him no matter what and be there for him. If it gets too stressful for you/and your family, finding someone to talk to even within the community is always a good idea. Calling around to see if their are support groups can help your father and you both. You might also want to consider getting another opinion for further evaluation if at any time you feel it is necessary or if you do not agree with the doctor's decision. Peace

Answer 3

Your friend isn't bi-polar. The bi-polar disorder is a very serious and severe illness that affects every possible area of functioning of an individual. The mood and behaviour shifts vary from minutes, to years (I have met a case of a girl that was extremely active in the summer, and depressive during winter).

This disorder is in fact a combination of two mental illnesses, and it's also called the manic-depressive illness.

Now that we've explained the theoretical part, let's get to practice. Your friend has a very difficult time adapting in any social environment, feels misunderstood, unfulfilled, unhappy and has a low self esteem. These characteristics are even more obvious due to the fact that he's probably a teenager, and adolescence is a very tumultous period in any individual's life.

Other than the fact that your friend is very insecure about himself, and that he's going through a very important change in life, he is not mentally ill. What you can do, is either wait 4-5 years until his temper will reach a more normal level, or try to reduce the quantity of time you spend together, up to the point of reviewing your priorities.

Answer 4

He could just be depressed but the only one who can diagnose it is a doctor. I don't know if you are a friend enough to him where if you told him he should talk to a doctor about what he's feeling that he would actually make an appointment. He may be depressed, still on drugs, there's probably a lot he's not telling you. A lot of times people who have bi-polar will be suicidal at times and happy at others, so I understand why you think he may have it. Just try to get him to see a professional he can talk to confidentially.

Answer 5

These are definitely signs of bi-polar disorder. Has your friend been analyzed by a physician? Perhaps during one of his "good" periods you should discuss this. Be sure & tell him that you are suggesting this out of your concern and feelings for him and his well-being. I know a couple of people with this disorder and the proper medication has really helped. Of course, when they do not take their medication, they are right back to where UR now.

Answer 6

You can always be friends, but believe him when he says you can't be a couple. He talks to you the way he does because he feels safe that you will not disappear on him if he behaves badly. You may want to correct that belief if you are involved emotionally, and want to be a couple.
He does sound bi-polar, and he needs to get help for it. It is a devasting condition for the person and their close friends and family. One friend was very relieved to get a diagnosis--it helped her start coping. In any case, you need to protect yourself emotionally from the abusive behavior. One trick is to repeat back to him what he says when you feel he is talking down to you. He may just need a wake-up call on how he sounds.

Answer 7

Before i answer your question, I give you much props. A girl like you is very strong because if any guy talked to me like that I would leave him. But if you have feelings for this guy and care for him you might want to sit him down and have the realist conversation and express your feelings and let him know that you do NOT WANT to be treated this way. you deserve much more respect than ever having to deal with him. And yes those seem like signs of bi-polar. he might need help.

Answer 8

I have to go with the first answer. It almost doesn't matter what he has.

The real question is why are you friends with an abusive person? You want to learn to value yourself so that you realize that you don't deserve to be treated in this manner. Therapy can help with these kinds of problems.

You friend does sound like he has mood issues and he probably is in therapy as anyone who has used drugs and has attempted suicide would be.

Answer 9

Those are some symptoms of having bi-polar, but doesn't necessarily mean he has bi-polar disorder.

I agree with the first answer. If you're not a couple already, you shouldn't even be concerning yourself with his mental condition. If he does have bi-polar, he needs to make the decision himself to seek treatment. Losing you as a friend and potential partner might be what he needs to make him realize that his behavior is not acceptable. He needs to take care of himself, but you need to take care of yourself, too.

Answer 10

If you would like some insight into Bi-Polar aka Manic Depression, a great book is His Bright Light by Danielle Steel. It's the story of her son's life and death (he lived with bi-polar). It's a remarkable story and will bring you to tears.