Bipolar disorder and cocaine

Answer 1

Persons with Bipolar disorder are very susceptible to cocaine (and other "uppers" abuse, like meth). This is because the high from the cocaine mimics the bipolar person's natural manic state (bipolar disorder consists of mania and depression, hence why it was once called "manic depression".

The mania experienced by a bipolar person is enjoyable. They often feel they are on top of the world, unstoppable, euphoric, impulsive and spontaneous. When in a manic phase, it is not uncommon for the person to go on a shopping spree and spend more money than they have. Sometimes the impulsive behavior during a manic phase will trigger a depressive episode, other times the depression just comes without any triggers.

The depression experienced by someone with bipolar is usually severe. Once the person has experienced cocaine (or other uppers) they may abuse it to retrieve those great feelings during their mania. This means the potential for abuse and addiction is high.

There are no specific risks that are unique to someone suffering from bipolar disorder compared to a cocaine users who does not have bipolar. I'd only assume that if the bipolar person is in a manic phase when (s)he uses the cocaine, their impulsivity and feelings that they cannot be harmed could make them susceptible to overdose or other dangerous behavior while under the influence.

There are rehab facilities that treat "dual diagnosis" which means the person not only has a substance abuse/addiction problem, but they have a mental disorder (such as bipolar) congruently. I'd recommend they look into a dual diagnosis treatment center if they are looking for or wanting help.

Answer 2

Probably not a good combination. You can find help and ways to be happy, and NOT doing drugs.