How do I help a loved one with bipolar disorder?

If you have a loved one with bipolar disorder, you probably already know how important family support is for their recovery. However, it can be tough to be supportive because the symptoms of bipolar disorder can affect you, as well.

Bipolar disorder is characterized by manic episodes that may alternate with periods of depression. During manic periods, your loved one may have explosive outbursts, reckless behavior, or psychotic thoughts. They may make poor decisions that affect you or make outrageous demands on your time.

When a person with bipolar disorder is depressed, they may have a hard time taking care of their basic needs. Things like getting out of bed and showering may be difficult for them. These behaviors and issues affect — not only the person with bipolar but those closest to them too.

The good news is that people with bipolar disorder can get better with the proper treatment and support from loved ones. Here are a few pointers on the do’s and don’ts of helping someone with bipolar.

Dont’s

● Ignore threats of taking their own life-  Up to 50 percent of people diagnosed with bipolar disorder will attempt suicide at least once. Even if you don’t believe that your loved one would harm themselves, it is essential to take any threats seriously. Anytime someone talks about taking their own life; it is a crisis requiring immediate attention. The person needs to be evaluated by a mental health professional to determine if they need hospitalization. You can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline anytime day or night if you are worried about a loved one.

● Expect the person to control manic behavior – Manic episodes require treatment. A person cannot manage these episodes with sheer willpower. Mania should not be taken lightly. Your loved one may need to go to the hospital if the episode is severe.

Do’s

● Learn as much about bipolar disorder as possible – The more you know about the disorder, the better you can help your loved one. Read books, articles and blog posts about the disorder. This will also help you understand what they are going through. Talk to your loved one’s therapist about ways that you can help them.

● Be involved in their treatment – Encourage your loved one to take medication and keep their doctor’s appointments. If it is your spouse or significant other who has bipolar disorder, attend couples counseling with them.

● Take care of yourself – Your loved one’s behavior can have a significant effect on you. It is crucial for you to take care of yourself also. Maybe consider getting therapy yourself or join a support group.

● Reach out for help in a crisis – If you believe that your loved one may be a danger to themselves or others, seek help immediately. Signs of an emergency include threats to harm self or others, hearing or seeing things that are not there and not sleeping or eating for several days.

You can help someone with bipolar disorder by encouraging them to stick with treatment and being patient and understanding. Let them know that you are on their side and don’t forget to take care of yourself also.

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Individual therapy provides many benefits for both your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. From handling challenging life events to learning to live with ongoing mental health issues to simply getting help with everyday stress, seeking counseling can help you live your best life.

If you are ready to start individual therapy, we have a variety of exceptional therapists ready to help you. Take a look at their bios and if you would like to schedule a free 15-minute consultation give us a call.

Other Services Offered at The Relationship Therapy Center in California:

In addition to Individual therapy for adults our Sacramento area counseling clinics located in Roseville and Fair Oaks, CA are pleased to offer a variety of mental health services. Our couples services include: Counseling after infidelity, sex therapy, co-parent counseling, family therapy, divorce counseling, intensive couples retreats, and premarital counseling. Our individual therapy services include, therapy for children, teen therapy, depression treatment, and individual relationship counseling. Our therapists offer online counseling in California to treat a variety of mental health concerns. Please reach out to our Sacramento area therapy office to learn more about the many ways we can help you or your loved ones heal and grow.