Yes, during an episode of extreme bipolar psychosis, a person may experience significant disturbances in thinking, perception, and judgment, leading them to act in ways that can be harmful to themselves and others, including their partners.
Bipolar psychosis refers to a severe form of psychosis that can occur during the manic or depressive phases of bipolar disorder. In a state of psychosis, a person may have hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren't real) and delusions (strongly held false beliefs). These delusions can be paranoid in nature, leading the person to believe that others, including their loved ones, are plotting against them or trying to harm them.
During a psychotic episode, the person may not be able to recognize or identify their partner or other loved ones, and they might perceive them as threats or strangers. As a result, they could act defensively or aggressively to protect themselves, leading to the potential for harm to their partner, even if the partner means no harm.
It's essential to remember that these behaviors are a result of the altered mental state caused by the psychosis and not the person's true intentions or feelings when they are stable. During episodes of psychosis, individuals are not in full control of their thoughts and actions.
If you suspect that your partner or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of extreme bipolar psychosis or any other mental health crisis, it is crucial to prioritize safety and seek immediate professional help. Encourage them to see a mental health professional or, if necessary, contact emergency services or go to the nearest hospital. A trained mental health professional can provide the appropriate evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment to manage the psychotic symptoms and ensure the safety of the affected individual and those around them.