Although many studies show 15 percent of those with bipolar commit suicide, a recent English study found the rate to be six percent, with the greatest risk early in the course of the illness. Panic attacks and depression are a particularly lethal combination. One study of 954 hospital patients over 10 years found 62 percent of those who killed themselves had panic attacks together with major depression. Robins also found 60 percent of patients communicated suicidal ideation to spouses and 50 percent to friends, but only 18 percent to doctors and others. The authors also warn to be suspicious of those who experience sudden and dramatic recovery, as they may have already made their decision and are pretending to be improved.
Gradual recovery is a far more reliable indicator.