Living with bipolar disorder presents profound challenges for both individuals diagnosed and their loved ones. The disorder's unpredictable behaviors and intense mood swings strain relationships and create uncertainty. Understanding effective coping mechanisms is crucial for those managing bipolar disorder. Equally important is educating friends and family members on providing support during manic and depressive episodes, which can be incredibly stressful for everyone involved. However, finding a balance is challenging. While it's important to recognize that the person with bipolar disorder isn't at fault and offer them empathy, prioritizing one's well-being is also very essential.

Moreover, individuals experiencing hypomania, a milder form of mania, may not always recognize their condition. They can even find it enjoyable since their productivity is heightened and thus may overlook potential risks. They might also have concerns about medication and might worry that taking medications will trigger depressive episodes, which can further lead to hesitation in seeking treatment. Furthermore, some individuals with depression may be misdiagnosed and remain untreated, prolonging their recovery process.

Navigating bipolar disorder requires understanding, support, and self-care. Fostering open communication and empathy while prioritizing personal needs helps individuals and their support systems navigate this complex condition effectively.

What is bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder, previously known as Manic depression, is a mental condition that is characterized by drastic shifts in mood, energy, and level of engagement or activity which can significantly impact daily functioning. These shifts are often referred to as ‘episodes’ and can vary in intensity and duration. The average age of onset for bipolar disorder is 25 years old, and it typically affects older adolescents or young adults.

Bipolar disorder mostly manifests in three different forms. Despite sharing some symptoms, their severity and ways of being treated differ. The types are as follows:

• Bipolar I disorder

• Bipolar II disorder

• Several forms of cyclothymic disorder (cyclothymia), including:

1. Bipolar disorder caused by drugs or alcohol and associated disorders

2. Bipolar disorder and associated disorders brought on by another health issue

3. Bipolar condition that's not specific

Challenges of bipolar disorder

Living with bipolar disorder poses numerous challenges. This condition involves drastic mood swings, from manic highs marked by impulsivity to depressive lows characterized by profound sadness and fatigue. These fluctuations can strain relationships, disturb sleep patterns, disrupt daily functioning, and even lead to psychotic symptoms like hallucinations or delusions. Managing bipolar disorder is a lifelong endeavor, requiring ongoing treatment adjustments and support. While medication and therapy can help stabilize mood, periods of remission offer only temporary relief, as symptoms can recur unpredictably. Coping with this uncertainty and the fear of relapse can be emotionally draining for individuals and their support networks.

How to Help and Support Loved One with Bipolar Disorder

Supporting a loved one with bipolar disorder can be challenging, but your assistance during mood swings can make a significant difference in their life. Here are some things you can do to help them:

• Educating yourself

Learn about bipolar disorder to understand the signs of manic and depressive episodes. You will be more prepared to help if you are more educated about bipolar disorder. For example, being aware of the signs of manic and depressed periods will help you effectively respond when there are severe changes in your mood.

• Active Listening

To be helpful, you don't necessarily have to offer solutions or advice. One of the best things you can do for someone with bipolar disorder is simply to listen to them, especially when they come to you to talk about all the problems they are facing with this disorder. By expressing your understanding and acceptance, you can help tremendously the person feel more at peace about their situation. The listening skills might be improved by the following things:

• Concentrating on what they are saying

• Maintaining calm when they are speaking

• Avoiding conflicts

• Avoid all the topics that make them irritated or frustrated

• Be supportive.

Bipolar disorder sufferers occasionally experience the feeling that everyone is out to get them. The person may feel more stable if you convince them that you are on their side. Even if you disagree with the person's attitudes and actions, reassuring them that they have your support will be beneficial for them. Affirming their abilities and positive attributes can assist those who suffer from bipolar disorder, who frequently feel hopeless and have low self-esteem. This can make it easier for them to recover quickly from all the depression episodes they are having.

• Be involved in their treatment.

Bipolar disorder is often treated with several or multiple therapy sessions and visits to doctors. Even though you may not want to go to these appointments, you can still support a person with bipolar disorder by going with them and staying till the appointment is over. Bipolar disorder patients may occasionally feel threatened or confused by these appointments. The presence of someone who can encourage them and engage in conversation with them could make them feel less stressed or anxious.

• Encourage online counseling.

Suggesting online counselling can be beneficial for your loved one. Counseling offers a safe space to discuss emotions, develop coping strategies, build resilience, and gain insight into their condition.

Conclusion:

Supporting a loved one with bipolar disorder requires patience, understanding, and active involvement. While it can be challenging to navigate the unpredictable nature of the condition, your assistance during mood swings can make a significant difference in their life. Encouraging education, active listening, and providing unwavering support are essential steps in helping them manage their symptoms effectively.

Furthermore, suggesting Online Therapy can be a valuable addition to their treatment plan. Online counsellors offer an empathic environment for individuals to seek support, develop coping strategies, and gain insight into their condition.

By seeking help from the Best Psychologist in India, individuals with bipolar disorder can access professional guidance and resources to navigate the complexities of their condition more effectively. Consistent encouragement and support from loved ones and mental health professionals like Online therapists or psychiatrists can empower individuals to take proactive steps toward managing their mental health and enhancing their overall well-being.

Contribution: Dr (Prof) R K Suri, Clinical Psychologist, life coach & mentor TalktoAngel & Dr Sakshi Kochhar Psychologist