How to Support a Loved One with Bipolar Disorder | Safe and Sound
Bipolar disorder is a challenge not only for those affected but also for their families and friends. Psychologists say that supporting loved ones through this difficult time requires patience, understanding, and unwavering companionship. Below are effective ways you can help a loved one with bipolar disorder improve their mental health and quality of life.
Ngo Thi Sang | Master of Educational Psychology – Applied to Safe and Sound Mental Health Care
Institute of Applied Medical Technology
1. Understanding Bipolar Disorder
What is bipolar disorder?
Psychiatrists say that a thorough understanding of bipolar disorder helps you empathize more with loved ones and avoid misunderstandings that could worsen their condition. Here are some important aspects you should learn about.
Bipolar disorder comprises two main phases: mania and depression, each with its own distinct characteristics:
- Manic phase: Patients often exhibit unusual excitement, increased energy, excessive talkativeness, or reckless behavior. According to psychiatrists, in severe cases, patients may lose the ability to distinguish between reality and delusion.
- Depressive phase: Deep feelings of sadness, loss of interest in daily activities, and possibly suicidal thoughts.
These stages may alternate or occur simultaneously (mixed state).
See also: What are the signs of bipolar disorder?
2. How to communicate effectively with someone with bipolar disorder
- Listen and don't judge: Effective communication begins with understanding. Psychologists advise that you listen to patients sincerely, allowing them to comfortably share their feelings and thoughts without fear of criticism. Avoid phrases like "Keep trying" or "Things aren't that bad," as these can make them feel belittled or misunderstood.
- Choose the right time: Communication is more effective when the patient is emotionally and psychologically stable. Psychologists advise avoiding conversations during manic or deep depressive episodes, as strong emotions can lead to misunderstandings or conflict. Instead, choose a time when they are calm to have an open and honest conversation.
- Use positive language:
Use positive language.
Positive language helps to encourage and reassure patients. Use words of encouragement such as "I understand you're trying" or "I'm here to support you." Avoid criticism or blame, as this can worsen feelings of insecurity and negativity.
- Ask open-ended questions: Instead of asking closed questions like "Are you feeling okay?", mental health professionals recommend asking open-ended questions like "How are you feeling today?". This encourages patients to share more details about their feelings and thoughts, helping you better understand their situation.
- Be empathetic but not overly indulgent: Try to empathize with the patient's psychological difficulties without losing objectivity. Don't hesitate to set boundaries if necessary, but do so gently and respectfully.
Psychologists say that effective communication not only helps patients feel loved but also facilitates better cooperation during treatment.
3. Support family members in adhering to treatment.
- Encourage proper medication use: Strict adherence to the psychiatrist's treatment plan, if medication is required, is crucial for managing symptoms. Psychologists suggest you can support this by creating medication reminders or helping them divide their medication into the necessary doses. In particular, ensuring they take medications like lithium or antipsychotics as prescribed will help reduce the risk of relapse or worsening symptoms.
- Involvement in psychological therapy: The presence of family members in psychological therapy sessions, such as family therapy or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), not only motivates the patient but also provides additional perspectives that help the therapist develop a suitable treatment plan. Furthermore, supporting their participation in support groups or community therapy programs is also very helpful.
- Contact a professional: If you notice any worrying signs, such as suicidal ideation, dangerous behavior, or significant changes in mood, immediately inform a psychiatrist or mental health professional for timely intervention. Maintaining regular contact with professionals will help you receive the right guidance in supporting your loved one.
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4. Create a positive living environment for loved ones with bipolar disorder.
- Maintain a stable routine: Psychologists say that establishing a clear daily schedule helps patients feel secure and reduces anxiety. Activities such as waking up, eating, working, and resting at fixed times will help regulate mood and reduce the risk of symptom recurrence.
- Encouraging a healthy lifestyle:
Encouraging healthy lifestyles
Help patients engage in healthy activities such as gentle exercise, walking, or yoga classes to improve their physical and mental well-being. A nutritious diet, sufficient sleep, and limiting the use of stimulants such as alcohol are important factors in supporting the treatment process.
- Minimize stress: Psychologists advise minimizing stressful situations or conflicts within the family. Creating a peaceful living environment with spacious, quiet surroundings, combined with relaxing activities such as listening to soft music, meditating, or reading, will help people with bipolar disorder feel more relaxed.
5. Take care of your own health.
Supporting a loved one with bipolar disorder is a journey that requires a lot of time and energy. To ensure you can help effectively, self-care is crucial. Here are some suggestions from psychologist and mental health professional Safe and Sound:
- Take time for yourself: Maintain activities that help you recharge, such as reading, listening to music, practicing yoga, meditating, or taking a walk. This is a way to reduce stress and maintain balance in your emotions, mind, and life.
- Seek support: You don't have to face this alone. Share your feelings and psychological struggles with friends, family, or a mental health professional. Joining support groups for caregivers also helps you learn from others' experiences and find empathy from those in similar situations.
- Recognize your limits: Don't push yourself to be perfect. If you feel overwhelmed, take a break or ask for support to avoid burnout. Only when you are healthy both physically and mentally can you be a strong support for your loved ones.
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Safe and Sound is part of the Institute of Applied Medical Technology (IMT).
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