Bipolar Disorder Self Injury

Self Injury in Bipolar Disorder
  Self injury amongst bipolar individuals certainly exists. Whether it be self harm, self abuse or self-damage the compulsion is there to inflict immediate damage on themselves.

  Often it takes the form of cutting, usually the skin, and for the duration of the action empowers the cutter with a sense of being in control. This self inflicted bodily harm originates from emotional turmoil, feelings of powerlessness etc which are amplified in bipolar individuals.

  Non bipolar individuals often abuse their bodies too with alcohol drugs junk food etc but these are indirect and painless at the time and whilst they might occur with full knowledge of long term possible consequences they do not involve deliberate compulsive acts to cause instantaneous tissue damage.

  To family and friends bipolar disorder self injury is one of the most stressful hazards of the disorder. Because of its recurrent nature round the clock vigilance is necessary which inevitably puts one in a policeman like role further exacerbating these feelings (perceived or otherwise) of powerlessness.

  Unlike rage outbursts or alcoholism and bipolar  which are very public, self injury normally occurs out of sight with significant effort expended concealing the act.

Where evidence of self harm exists it is best to seek help from mental health professionals.