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The Bipolar Puzzle: Dealing, Supporting and Thriving

wellbeing

By Gavin Hayes

- Mar 29, 2024

In the chaos of today's world, bipolar disorder stands out as an especially difficult beast to wrestle. The condition's mind-melting complexities, fanned by misconceptions and myths, can reduce life to an alienated existence for those diagnosed. Enter the lifesaver - You. On the frontlines with your friend or relative, you can turn things around. As stressed by Meghan Marcum, PsyD, chief psychologist at A Mission for Michael, helping them navigate through symptoms can bring a world of difference.

The bipolar rollercoaster has the capacity to drive those diagnosed down dangerous lanes – from unsafe sexual behaviors, drug abuse, to drastic overspending. Worse still, it can provoke suicidal tendencies. These self-destructive behaviors need checks, and nothing works better than a supportive social safety net.

But, getting past the tangled forest of bipolar disorder requires an understanding of its nooks and crannies. So, how do you crank up your support game for your loved ones?

  1. Get Schooled: Dive into the world of bipolar disorder - its types, symptoms, and treatments. The better informed you are, the better equipped you'll be to ask relevant questions, and better understand your loved ones. Such knowledge prepares you for what’s coming down the mood pipeline, says Steven Guglielmi, a licensed counselor at LifeStance Health.

  2. Ask and You Shall Receive: Direct communication can lay out a clear path for support. How can you ease their stress? Do they need drives to appointments, or check-ins before and after? Maybe running errands, managing household chores, or babysitting are helpful. Tiny actions can show bigger love, remarks Marcum.

  3. Stir Up Treatment Juice: Bipolar disorder demands lifelong medication, but half the people tend to ignore this crucial factor, significantly increasing relapse risk. Hence, it's important to gently remind them about their medications and therapy schedules. However, there's more that can be done. Encourage them to embrace healthy habits such as diet control, engaging hobbies, daily exercise, a consistent sleep schedule, and an overall regular day plan.

  4. Keep an Eye Out: Catching escalating symptoms early can prevent a full-blown mood episode. Having the permission to warn them about observed unusual changes can be beneficial. If such changes lead to them becoming a danger to themselves or others, seek immediate professional help.

Remember, the chaos of bipolar disorder sometimes incites people to act out of character. These episodes should never be overlooked and instead, dealt with firmly but sensitive understanding. Your role as a trusted anchor can be pivotal in handling such critical situations, turning the tide in their favour.

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