Sometimes we can need a little more support, if you feel that you are in crisis we have provided some information on who you can contact in addition to the free Peer Support provided by Bipolar UK.

Hypomania can be a productive phase of the condition and sometime people accomplish activities enjoy their more elevated mood, however, there is also time when this can tip into full mania with risky behaviour and possible psychotic symptoms. 

With hypomania you may be feeling agitated, anxious and have lots of energy, talking fast or rushing from task to task, you may also find you are spending more or wanting to spend money without worrying about your budget.

Slowing things down can help to reduce the escalation:  the following tips may help

  • Speaking to someone from your support network, this may be family or friend have they noticed your mood is a bit more elevated
  • Have something you can do to help relax, take a break from the activity which is overwhelming.
  • If you feel the hypomania is building and you are not sleeping call your doctor, GP or mental health professional for support if necessary a medication review.

What's the best course of action in a crisis situation?

Low Mood at a 0-1 on our Bipolar UK mood scale may mean you have become very depressed and more withdrawn, lacking self-care or isolated and feeling less hopeful.  A higher risk of suicidal thinking can occur in this phase of the illness.   If this is where you are you should seek help and talk to those around you or reach out to professionals who can help. 

  • Speak to your friends, family and peer support network if you have one,
  • Reach out to professionals, including GP, Mental Health Service if under their care or attend the nearest A&E department and ask to speak to the on-duty psychiatrist. 
  • Talking is important and support from people who understand what you are going through can help difficult symptoms reduce.

General Crisis Support

  • Call the Samaritans on 116 123 or contact [email protected]    www.samaritans.org

  • If you are under the care of your local mental health team you can contact them for support along with the local crisis team, you can request out of hours help too. 

  • You can also request an urgent GP appointment

  • Ring SANEline on 0300 304 7000 between 4.30pm and 10.30pm each evening. www.saneline.org.uk  

  • The Calmzone provides emotional support for men 0800 58 58 58 nationwide open 5pm to midnight daily www.thecalmzone.net

Urgent Help!

If you are feeling suicidal or have thoughts of hurting yourself or someone else

  • Contact 999
  • Go to the nearest Accident and Emergency Department, you can find this through NHS Choices