One thing that many people do not anticipate (or do not give enough attention to) when they are dealing with bipolar disorder is the financial burden that it can put on you and your family.  Even if they do face financial difficulties, they don't know what to do about them.

Financial problems are common with bipolar disorder.  However, this can be dangerous, as the stress from it can lead to a bipolar episode.

Some people have even had to claim bankruptcy because the financial responsibility becomes too great for them.

Therefore, it is necessary not only to acknowledge financial problems, but to do something about them, so you don't end up declaring bankruptcy yourself.

The problem is that when a person is in a bipolar manic episode, excessive spending may be one of the behaviors that they exhibit.  Then, when the episode is over, you are left with credit card bills, cleaned-out checking and savings accounts, and other financial problems.

In addition, bipolar disorder is an expensive disorder to have.

Following are just some of the problems that people with bipolar disorder face financially:

1.      Lack of insurance

2.      Co-pays

3.      Difficulty affording medications

4.      Unsuccessful business investments

5.      Inability to work at a regular job

6.      Overdue bills

So what can you do about it?  For one thing, you can cut up the credit cards or at least make them inaccessible to your loved one.  You can also open up a separate checking and/or savings account in only your name so that your loved one cannot get to the funds in a bipolar episode.