Bipolar Morbidity

Coping with the life long mental illness of bipolar disorder is extremely challenging for the individual as well as the loved ones who surround them. A common problem which adds to this burden is when the patient is in denial of their illness. This is one of the most common reasons why many people go without treating their mental illness as they refuse to take their medications for an illness which they believe they do not have.

Anosognosia with Bipolar Disorder

It is estimated that forty percent of individuals with bipolar are truly not aware at certain periods of time they have this illness because of the condition called anosognosia. Anosognosia is attributed to a part of the brain which has been damaged and controls skills such as problem solving and reasoning.

This condition comes and goes typically resulting in the individual being aware of their illness when they are not experiencing episodes of mania or depression. However, when they are experiencing the symptoms of mood swings associated with bipolar, they are in denial that anything is wrong.

Managing Anosognosia as a Caregiver of Someone with Bipolar Disorder

It is essential that individuals who have bipolar disorder in combination with Anosognosia have someone they can rely on to assist them with their treatment especially when they are having episodes associated with this illness that they can not handle on their own. Following the prescribed treatment plan and taking any medications on a regular basis is essential for anyone with bipolar disorder.

This treatment plan should be discussed with the individual when their mood is stabilized with emphasis being placed on the facts that this disorder can be controlled with these medications and failing to take them could mean serious consequences such as hospitalization, reckless behavior which could lead to legal issues, serious injury, or even suicide. During the times when the individual is in denial of their illness, the best course of action is to help them by encouraging them to take their medications and stick with their treatment plan.