About 1% of the United States population has bipolar disorder, characterized by very high periods of euphoria (manic periods) followed by phases of depression, anxiety, and malaise. Although bipolar disorder can be administered with medication and therapy, having the support of loved ones also plays a crucial role in reducing its symptoms and improving the victim’s quality of life. However, treating someone with bipolar disorder with love, compassion and empathy aren’t very simple in every case. It may be full of challenges for you and your loved one as well.
At Harbor Compounding pharmacy, our team of the best doctors offers compassionate, effective therapies for people with bipolar disorder. We can also help you understand and learn how to deal with your bipolar-affected loved one without burning yourself out.
If your loved one is suffering from bipolar disorder, you can follow these different ways to care for them and yourself too.
1. Learn everything you can
You can learn everything about bipolar disorder from reading books, articles, journals, researches, etc. By learning, you will be able to understand better what your loved one is going through. It will also help you develop awareness regarding the condition and feelings of empathy and compassion for your loved one. In this way, you can easily provide them with better support.
2. Listen without judgment
Extraordinary listening abilities are foremost in each relationship in your life. However, being a patient listener can be particularly difficult in the situations like dealing with bipolar disorder. The key: When your loved one needs to discuss their sentiments, always stay available entirely. Listen to what exactly they’re saying. Don’t act as if you know all answers to their questions. Stay calm and don’t react to their feelings even if they do not align with yours.
3. Spend time with them
Several people with bipolar disorder end up disconnecting themselves from others because of their personality issues. Isolating themselves does not only worsen their symptoms but also causes them to develop feelings of depression and suicide. Not exclusively would isolation be able to exacerbate their indications. However, it can likewise introduce sensations of melancholy and even self-destruction. Keep them engaged in activities you both enjoy.
4. Encourage healthy habits
Bipolar disorder can negatively affect your loved one’s individual life and physical and mental health. Ensure to encourage them to follow a good diet, regular workout, and a balanced sleep routine to improve their overall health. Ensure they keep up on their meds and treatment but do not lecture them. Instead, please encourage them to follow healthy habits by following them yourself.
5. Keep a schedule
Indeed, even without bipolar disorder, it’s not difficult to feel overwhelmed when you don’t have a schedule for your day. Keeping a daily plan is an excellent way for your friends and family to feel more in charge of their lives and moods while avoiding unexpected situations and unpleasant surprises.
6. Consider therapy for yourself
Taking care of someone with bipolar disorder can be exhausting, and it can be challenging to find peace, mainly if your loved one is aggressive or low. Talking with a specialist helps you understand your role and get familiar with some new tools and methods that can help both of you stay healthy and cheerful. Support groups are one of the best ways of sharing experiences and feeling esteemed for your efforts.
How Can We Help?
If your loved one is suffering from bipolar disorder, their quality of life can be improved by your help. Meanwhile, however, the road to a healthy lifestyle can negatively affect your loved ones, as well. If you’d prefer to study bipolar disorder and how you can help your loved one without getting worn out, do not hesitate to call our office or book an arrangement online today.
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