How to Best Support a Loved One with Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a difficult illness. For Arden Tucker, an episode of depression can be especially debilitating. Like many who experience bipolar disorder, Tucker fears she won’t recapture the essence of who she really is, the person she was before the depression began. “My bipolar depression can feel insidious,” she said. That’s because even though Tucker takes medication, her depression is cyclical, so it’ll return “again, and again, and again.” Her partner of 35 years is a tremendous support. One of the most important ways Tucker’s partner supports her is by checking on her when she starts to get depressed. She asks Tucker if she’d like to share how she’s feeling, and if she can identify the trigger for her sinking mood. Colleen King’s wife knows her warning signs well, and they have an agreement that her input is always welcome. “She expresses her concern about my well-being, and will talk with me about any behavioral or emotional changes she’s observed.” King noted that her wife is like her barometer. Because she feels emotionally safe with her, King regularly shares how she’s doing, and requests her wife’s feedback. Sometimes, Tucker’s partner makes suggestions. For instance, when Tucker is feeling anxious, her partner asks if her anti-anxiety medication may help to calm her and minimize the emotional pain. King’s partner does the same. She encourages King to reduce her stress and use her coping skills, which include exercising...
Source: Psych Central - Category: Psychiatry Authors: Tags: Bipolar Disorders Family General Relationships & Love Self-Help Bipolar Depression Bipolar Disorder bipolar disorder support Friends Suicide Prevention Awareness Month Source Type: news