Relapse
The return of episode symptoms after a period of stability.
Relapse is the return of a mood episode after a period of being well. In bipolar disorder it is expected rather than exceptional: the condition is recurrent by definition. A relapse tells you something about the illness, not about your effort.
That framing is worth holding onto, because the shame that follows one is often exactly what delays getting help the second time.
What helps is much the same each time: noticing it early, protecting sleep, telling someone, and contacting your prescriber before it becomes a crisis rather than after. Most relapses announce themselves first — the prodrome usually repeats — which is what makes an early-warning plan more useful than a resolution to try harder next time.
See also
If you’re in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, you’re not alone and help is available right now. In the US & Canada call or text 988. In the UK & Ireland call 116 123 (Samaritans). Elsewhere, contact your local emergency services — Get Help Now lists lines by country.
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