Bipolar disorder shows a range of emotions in a loved one that you may have thought you would never experience. There are very high emotions, and very low emotions that come with the two phases of bipolar disorder. People who have bipolar disorder need as much support as they can get, because they will be experiencing some emotions that are very unfamiliar to them, and they cannot control it. Along with a medical team, your loved one will need to have someone by their side during this difficult time. There are a number of ways to help a person who has bipolar. Although it can be difficult at times, the person who is suffering from this disorder will be extremely grateful for your help, even though bipolar may limit the way that can express their gratitude.
If you notice a loved one exhibiting mood swings that are very unlike them, and they continue to fluctuate between very high moods with lots of energy, to extremely low moods that mimic depression, you may want to have a discussion with them. Getting your loved one treatment is the first step in helping them live a normal life. The combination of medication and therapy can help people get on the right track, as well as stabilize their mood. Once you go to the doctor, make sure to listen and learn. Listen to your loved one about the symptoms they have and what they are going through. People who have bipolar disorder have a valid point of view. Just because they have an illness does not make this any less true. Learn all you can about bipolar. That way, when certain symptoms arise, you can understand that are a part of the illness, and you will not just brush it off.
There are going to be bad times with bipolar. When these happen, make sure to ask how you can help. Just by helping your loved ones with chores around the house, or taking care of a child when they are having a hard time can be the best thing you can do. Also, have a plan for the bad times. You should make a plan together about what to do when these happen. Always know what to do in emergencies. If you both are on the same page about what to do, the future with bipolar will be much less scary.
People who have bipolar disorder have a phase of depression where they may want to pull away from you and other people. When this happens, try and get them to do an activity that they like, or offer to do something with them. Do not force a person into these activities, as that could make them pull away even more. Let the issue go, and maybe ask a few days later in a calm and gentle way.
You should make sure that your loved one sticks with their treatment plan. They should be taking their medication regularly, getting check ups, and living a healthy lifestyle. Encourage them with their treatment, and maybe accompany them to doctor’s appointments. Bipolar is a lifelong disorder, so keeping up with medication and other treatment is key to living a life where bipolar does not take over.
Make sure to take care of yourself through this entire process. If you feel overwhelmed, make sure you have another person who can help take care of your loved one while you take a break. Keep yourself healthy and happy, because if you are not taking care of yourself, you will not be able to take care of another person.
Bipolar can be a very difficult disorder for the person suffering from it, and the people who are helping them. By making sure you and your loved one are on the same page, as well as being in contact with their treatment team, things will go smoothly. Living with bipolar is difficult, but there are many ways to make the best out of the situation.