Learning About Mental Illness
When someone is diagnosed with bipolar depression, his or her family usually become primary caregivers with little education about mental illness. What's more, symptoms of mental illness can upset the family unit, especially when episodes happen without warning.
Family members must learn all they can about bipolar disorder to help the ill person to better cope with changes he or she may need to make.
Here are a few things you can do to support your loved one:
- Try not to get angry or upset when your loved one shows signs of depression or acts out. Remember the behavior is a symptom of a health condition. It is not your loved one's fault; he or she cannot control it.
- Share your feelings. Dealing with mood and behavior disorders can be very stressful. Talk about your feelings with other family members, trusted friends or healthcare professionals.
- Make the most of each day. Treasure the relationships you form with those who are working together to support your loved one.
- Allow your loved one to take responsibility for his or her treatment. Your loved one will benefit from understanding why treatment is important and from being involved in decisions about treatment.
- Encourage your loved one to stick with his or her treatment program. Things you might do include reminding him or her to take his or her medication, making a date to exercise or attending therapy together.
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