How to Care for Someone with Bipolar Disorder?

Mental health is never an easy journey, especially if one gets the help they need and gets diagnosed. It is a nerve-wracking experience, and it takes courage to go up to a psychologist and admit that you need help. In this case, we shall be examining bipolar disorder, and how it affects people around us.

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder also called Bipolar Depression, or manic depression is essentially a mood disorder, which is characterized by severe changes in mood, running from the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. It ranges between energetic and joyful bouts, called mania, and lethargic and sadness-filled bouts, called depression. There are usually ‘episodes’ of either, and each time it is ranging in intensity. There are quite a few types of bipolar disorder, such as Bipolar I, Bipolar II, and Cyclothymic Disorder. 

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

There are variations in each kind of disorder under bipolar (which also ranges and differs from the manic episodes and the depressive ones) but there are some common ones that are similar in most people. 

• intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or joy, for an extended period
• not having an interest in things that were once enjoyable
• difficulty in basic cognitive faculties, such as attention, memory, and decision making 
• irritability and/or restlessness, especially if it is seen to be increased in frequency
• sleeping too much or too little
• eating too much or too little
• suicidal thoughts/ thoughts about death
• rapid transitions in conversation and increased speed while talking 
• racing thoughts
• impulsiveness and/or risky behavior

What to do when you’re depressed

First things first, talk it out. If you are going through some or most of these symptoms, which have been persisting for a while, and have been hampering your day-to-day activities, then talking to loved ones can help. Following this, going to a mental health specialist is something you could consider, because they are there to help. 

As is with a lot of mental health disorders, they are not something that can be cured, and unfortunately bipolar is one of them. However, that does not mean that one cannot manage their conditions, and follow a treatment plan which will help. Making lifestyle changes at this point is also necessary which can prevent extreme episodes from taking place. 

Sticking to a healthy routine can keep your mood in check. Eating well, and sleeping well are just some of the basic things that can be checked to ensure a good schedule. Scheduling things can also help to prioritize things that need to be done. 

When in an episode, don’t be afraid to do things that you still like, even though you may not want to. It can help you feel better in the moment. Staying active can alleviate certain symptoms of depression. 

Avoid isolating yourself, despite the idea of socializing being daunting because it can foster a deeper onset of depression. It will also be helpful if you can find new methods of relieving stress, such as getting a spa, yoga, or even meditation. Lastly, it is always great to find like-minded people, via support groups, so one meets like minded people. 

Bipolar Disorder: The Nine Worst Things to Say

Sometimes getting diagnosed can come as a shock, not only to the patient but also to their loved ones. As a person seeks bipolar disease treatment, be careful not to say things like the following, which never helps (even though some of them may come from a place of genuine concern):

• This is your fault.
• You’re crazy.
• You’re not doing the most you can be doing.
• This is a bad phase.
• There’s no need to worry, you’ll be fine.
• What’s the matter with you?
• You can never be in a serious romantic relationship.
• I can’t relate and I can’t help you.
• I can’t take you taking out your moods on me, I’m tired of it. 

Bipolar Disorder: The Eight Best Things to Say

This is applicable in the case that you have a loved one who is going through bipolar disorder. You need to be encouraging towards them, and some of the following things can be said that can be helpful as they seek Bipolar depression treatment:

• I’m here for you, and we will make it through this together.
• You are important to me. 
• You are not alone, you are never alone. 
• This is a medical illness, and it is not your fault.
• Please tell me how I can help. 
• I may not know how you feel, but I am here to support you.
• When you’re feeling like giving up, tell yourself to hold on for yet another minute.
• Whatever you feel like you can do. 
• The illness never defines yous- you are so much more than it. You are still you, and nothing has changed that. 

Ensuring Good Bipolar Disorder Treatment

There are several things you can do to make the process of getting better easier. Encourage your loved one to seek out help in terms of treatment. Explain to them the necessity, and it will help relieve symptoms. Prepare for their appointments, and put together a list of questions. 

Try to go with them when going for these appointments as a support system. Talk to their mental health expert, with their consent, and ask how you can help in the treatment process of their bipolar depressive disorder. 

Keep track and help them to keep track of their symptoms, treatment, progress, and setbacks. And aid them to stick to the plan of treatment. 

With your help, your close one can overcome and curb a lot of the problems- they just need the help and the push for it.