Living with Someone Diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder

The author would like to thank the members of the bipolar support group at MDJunction.com for their thoughtful contributions.

Living with a parent, child, or partner that has bipolar disorder can be devastating if the situation is not handled properly. Bipolar disorder is a maladaptive mental illness that can be handled with the proper medications and therapy, but support at home is also essential to the well being of anyone diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Here are a few tips for living with someone diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

First of all, consider joining a support group. Many families benefit from conversing with others that face the challenges of having a member of the family diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Many of the same frustrations and problems will occur throughout the group, so the support group provides a safe outlet for these frustrations, as well as a place to learn about conflict management within the family.

It is vitally important to treat someone with bipolar disorder as the same person he or she was before the diagnosis. Nothing tears families apart faster than the stigma of mental illness, so make every effort to treat the individual suffering from bipolar like a "normal" person. Of course it is important to be aware of his or her treatment, so remain open to discussion about various treatments. Demonstrate a willingness to understand, and that will help establish healthy lines of communication.

Become a library of knowledge about bipolar disorder. This will show your loved one that you really do care about his or her well being. Attend appointments with therapists and psychiatrists (only if your loved one is comfortable), and put that knowledge to use.

Have an emergency plan that is understood by every member of the household. Bipolar disorder is a real disease, and it is important to have a plan if your loved one's symptoms are out of control. Just like the families of some diabetics have emergency plans, it is important to have a plan established in the home of a bipolar patient.

If relations become strained, consider family therapy. These types of sessions can help clear the air of tension. It is important to get this type of therapy sooner rather than later because issues of this magnitude are rarely resolved by ignoring the problem.

A diagnosis of bipolar disorder is not the end of the world- for the patient or the patient's loved ones. Life might get difficult from time to time, but the road to stability is not impossible, provided there is adequate support. Any relationship with another person requires love and commitment, and the same sentiments apply with a diagnosed mental illness.

For more information on bipolar disorder, visit:
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA)- http://www.dbsalliance.org/site/PageServer?pagename=about_bipolar_overview
The Mayo Clinic- http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/bipolar-disorder/DS00356
Medline Plus- http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/bipolardisorder.html