How to Deal with a Family Member Who Has Bipolar Disorder

The wikiHow article "How to Deal with a Family Member Who Has Bipolar Disorder," co-authored by Trudi Griffin, addresses how to cope with a family member's bipolar disorder by focusing on supporting the family member, self-care, and understanding the condition.To support a family member, it's helpful tounderstand that certain behaviours are linked to the disorder. For instance, bragging can be a sign of mania rather than intentional arrogance. Supporting their mental health treatment is also important, and family therapy can be a helpful resource. If the family member agrees, communicate with their mental health provider to share concerns or get advice. You can also help them find a therapist or psychiatrist, but avoid pushing treatment if they're reluctant.Monitoring medication compliance is another way to help, as people with bipolar disorder may avoid medication because they enjoy the "high" of mania. If you notice they've stopped taking medication, notify their doctor and encourage them to adhere to their regime, perhaps by providing incentives. Be aware that medications for bipolar disorder can have adverse effects, so encourage them to discuss any issues with their doctor. During a manic or hypomanic episode, help reduce harm by negotiating to reduce risky behaviours and keeping vulnerable people away. If they are at risk of harming themselves or others, contact their medical health clinician, or call an ambulance or suicide hotline.Planning for crises is crucial; create an action plan with contact information for relatives, doctors, and hospitals, and share it with your family member. It is also helpful toassist your family member in avoiding triggers, such as caffeine, alcohol, stress, an imbalanced diet, sleep irregularities, and interpersonal conflicts. If you live with them, consider removing substances like alcohol from the home and fostering a relaxing environment. Showing compassion and understanding is also essential.Taking care of yourself is also critical. Practice empathy to better understand their behaviour and reduce negative emotions. Focus on your own mental health by recognising that you can't control your family member's behaviour and shift your attention to your own needs and goals. Use coping resources like reading, writing, or relaxation techniques, and consider seeking professional help if you're having difficulty coping.To understand bipolar disorder better,recognise that it is a biologically based condition with a strong genetic component. Learn about the different symptoms of Bipolar I and Bipolar II disorders. Bipolar I involves manic episodes lasting a week or longer, while Bipolar II includes major depressive and hypomanic episodes. Bipolar disorder is usually treated with medication and therapy, such as mood stabilisers and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Educate yourself about the effects of bipolar disorder on families, such as burden, lack of energy, and lack of support for spouses. If a family member thinks that the person with bipolar has control over their illness this can lead to feelings of burden and dissatisfaction with the relationship.

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