Helping Someone with Bipolar Disorder

Supporting a loved one in navigating mental health challenges can be both extremely challenging as well as rewarding. Without any sort of formalized bipolar disorder counseling geared toward supporting loved ones, however, it can often be challenging to know how exactly to help those around you navigate bipolar disorder.

If you’re looking for some tips on the best way to be there for your loved one living with bipolar disorder, ACT Teletherapy has gathered some foundational advice to help you provide support in a caring and compassionate way. 

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that is characterized by extreme mood swings. Formerly called manic depression, the mood swings of bipolar disorder take on the form of extreme emotional highs, also known as mania, and extreme lows, all known as depressive episodes. These mood swings can impact sleep, behavior, judgment, thought processing, and relationships. Bipolar disorder is a lifelong mental health condition. However, there are a number of ways that your can support someone in managing bipolar disorder and navigating their day-to-day life. With the help of a solid support network, therapeutic support, and working with a doctor to find the right medication if needed, individuals with bipolar disorder can live a happy and fulfilled life.

Helping a Loved One with Bipolar Disorder

If you have a loved one living with bipolar disorder, there are a number of different ways that you can support them. First and foremost, it’s important to accept the limits and boundaries of your loved one. Bipolar disorder is not something that a person can just “snap out of” and empty platitudes like “look on the bright side” won’t be helpful. It’s also important to know your own limits and recognize that you are not a trained mental health professional, and all you can do is be there to support them. It’s also beneficial to help find ways to reduce the stress in the life of your loved one and make sure you’re communicating openly about your feelings and concerns in a loving way. 

Encouraging Professional Support

One of the most beneficial things you can do for your loved one is to encourage them to seek out professional support. Help destigmatize seeking mental health services by talking about your own experiences with mental health challenges or counseling, and make sure they know you will be there to help them navigate finding the right service provider if they need it.

Choose ACT Teletherapy for bipolar disorder counseling!

Finding the right bipolar disorder counseling service can be tricky, but we’re here to help at ACT Teletherapy. Our expert mental health practitioners will work with you to develop a treatment plan that’s right for you. 

Learn more and get in touch today to book an appointment with one of our amazing mental health professionals!