Why is bipolar disorder considered a severe mental illness?

Generally, bipolar disorder is classified as a severe mental illness due to its characteristics of extreme mood fluctuations and high risk of suicide, which significantly impair psychological and social functioning. If any abnormalities are observed, prompt medical attention is recommended. The detailed analysis is as follows:

On one hand, individuals with bipolar disorder experience intense shifts between manic or hypomanic episodes and depressive episodes. During manic phases, they may make impulsive decisions, while during depressive phases, they lose motivation for daily life. These extreme states not only severely impact physical and mental health but also lead to disruptions in work and study, breakdowns in interpersonal relationships, significant deterioration of social functioning, and even impair basic self-care abilities.

On the other hand, the condition is often accompanied by a high risk of suicide. Patients experiencing depressive or mixed episodes may engage in suicidal behaviors due to emotional turmoil. Additionally, the illness typically follows a chronic course, prone to relapse triggered by external factors. Increased frequency of relapses can worsen brain function damage, and some patients may develop psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions, requiring professional intervention for effective management.

If suspected symptoms are identified, it is important to seek evaluation from a psychiatrist as early as possible. During treatment, patients must adhere to prescribed medication regimens, and family support and supervision are crucial to help reduce the risk of relapse and promote recovery of daily functioning.