Method 1 Of 4:managing Your Husbands Bipolar Disorder Together
Take Care Of Yourself And Set Boundaries
Loving someone with bipolar disorder is trying, but you can’t rescue your loved one with bipolar disorder. You cannot control them or make them take responsibility for getting better. You can offer support, but ultimately recovery is in the hands of the person with the illness. Because you too are coping with the effects of this disorder and are focused on your loved one, it is easy to forget about your own health. Take time for yourself and take care of your health. Join a support group or dedicate an hour each week to doing something you enjoy. If not, you could become depressed and even turn to drugs or alcohol to cope. Before you know it, you will require our addiction treatment in Boca as well.
We Can All Be A Little Shifty When We Sense That Someone Is Lying To Us But Here Are Some Tips On What To Look Out For In Case Your Lie Detector Gets Out Of Hand
One of my close friends, David, didnt show up for my birthday party this year. All of my other friends showed up, so I assumed that David had plans that he considered more important than seeing me. Though I still had a great time at my party, I was upset he wasnt there.
The next day, my brain started to chatter: David was lying to me in the past when he said he wanted to meet. Now I know the truth. The day after, my chattering brain got worse and entered the realm of paranoid thinking. I started to feel a sneaking suspicion that David had been pretending all along and not telling me the truth about his feelings. Eventually, I convinced myself that his absence from my party was a sign that he didnt have the guts to tell me I was not worthy of being his friend. I was sure I was being used. This of course ties in with any feelings of inadequacy I have about how people feel about me, so it can often be confusing to notice these unrealistic, paranoid thoughts at first.
Paranoid thoughts are bizarre because they can rarely be proven when examined rationally. When a student in a dorm believes the government has wired his room in order to record his behavior and listen in to his thoughts, its a .
Thank heavens I have taught myself to recognize paranoid thoughts and then fight my way back into reality.
Several days after my party, I received a call from David. My mind reactively said, Dont answer it. But I knew I had to just skip that thought and answer anyway.
How Can You Help Someone With Bipolar Disorder
Dealing with the ups and downs of bipolar disorder can be difficultand not just for the person with the illness. The moods and behaviors of a person with bipolar disorder affect everyone aroundespecially family members and close friends. It can put a strain on your relationship and disrupt all aspects of family life.
During a manic episode, you may have to cope with reckless antics, outrageous demands, explosive outbursts, and irresponsible decisions. And once the whirlwind of mania has passed, it often falls on you to deal with the consequences. During episodes of depression, you may have to pick up the slack for a loved one who doesnt have the energy to meet responsibilities at home or work.
The good news is that most people with bipolar disorder can stabilize their moods with proper treatment, medication, and support. Your patience, love, and understanding can play a significant part in your loved ones treatment and recovery. Often, just having someone to talk to can make all the difference to their outlook and motivation.
But caring for a person with bipolar disorder can also take a toll if you neglect your own needs, so its important to find a balance between supporting your loved one and taking care of yourself.
Did You Ever Try To Kill Yourself
SOMEONE I DIDNT KNOW ONCE ASKED ME THIS. It was at a really bad gig at a rundown club, and I honestly didnt think the night was going to sink any further. Then a friend-of-a-friend asked me this. Dont ask someone this. I mean, obviously do ask if you are friends and youre having a one-on-one heartfelt conversation four pints in, but, in general, I wouldnt ask this until youre 99.9% sure it wont make you a dick for asking this.
What I Wish My Friends And Family Knew About Bipolar
Unless you have walked a mile in my shoes, theres no way you will ever be able to understand what its like to have bipolar.By Jess Melancholia
I dont know a single person with bipolar disorder who doesnt have that one friend or family member who just doesnt get it. They either have no idea about mental illnesses in general or believe they are something you can fix.
For me, its more than frustrating; its downright cruel. You would think your family and friends would be there to support you. Unfortunately, you get the usual confusion and apathy. Or you get the anger.
Here are three basic premises that I wish they knew:
You cant understand my bipolar and you never will.
When Im manic or depressed, thats not the real me.
Everything is amplified when Im in the middle of an episode, so its much easier for me to say or do things that I wouldnt if I were well. This doesnt by any means excuse anythingbipolar is an explanation but not an excuse. A lot of outside stimuli are attacking my senses, and its hard for me to hold back the things I feel compelled to say and do. The fact is, my bipolar affects my ability to react normally to the world around me. The last thing I need is anger and criticism while Im trying to deal with my symptoms the best way I know how. My personal catchphrase is, Dont be ashamed of your actions; learn from them and grow.
Your coping skills wont fix me.
Getting Help For Others
If you’re concerned about someone you know, you could contact a GP for them.
If they’re receiving support from a mental health service, you could contact their mental health worker.
If you think the person’s symptoms are severe enough to require urgent treatment and could be placing them at possible risk, you can:
- take them to the nearest , if they agree
A number of mental health helplines are also available that can offer expert advice.
Convert Negativity To Positivity
There are two sides constantly battling inside of us one is filled with strength and courage while the other is doubt and insecurities. Which one will you feed?
What if I mess up this speech? What if Im not funny enough? What if I forget what to say?
Its no wonder why many of us are uncomfortable giving a presentation. All we do is bring ourselves down before we got a chance to prove ourselves. This is also known as a self-fulfilling prophecy a belief that comes true because we are acting as if it already is. If you think youre incompetent, then it will eventually become true.
Motivational coaches tout that positive mantras and affirmations tend to boost your confidents for the moments that matter most. Say to yourself: Ill ace this speech and I can do it!
Take advantage of your adrenaline rush to encourage positive outcome rather than thinking of the negative what ifs.
Heres a video of Psychologist Kelly McGonigal who encourages her audience to turn stress into something positive as well as provide methods on how to cope with it:
When People Say Someone Is So Bipolar Because Theyre Moody
Lets set the record straight. Bipolar is not about having a roller coaster ride of emotions every hour. In fact, longitudinal research has shown that the average mood episode lasts over three months.
Some people with bipolar do have whats technically called mixed-features specifier. The DSM-4 used to identify this as mixed episodes, which in a way is easier to understand, but it was updated in the DMS-5. Picture being ramped up, full of energy, but also self-loathing and sad at the same time. Thats an example. And, suicide risk is especially high when both mania and depressive symptoms are happening at the same time.
Meme courtesy of memegenerator.net
Can A Person With Bipolar Disorder Ever Be Truly Happy
My short answer is: Yes, a person who lives with bipolar disorder can certainly be truly happy. But I think I can understand the concerns behind the question.
If you have experienced disruptive or dangerous episodes of mania, you may worry that feeling happy is just a first step toward another damaging episode. Manic episodes are generally not happy or pleasant times, but some people do experience elevated mood or an exaggerated sense of well-being as part of mania. There are, however, some important differences between mania and feeling truly happy. Those key features of mania or hypomania include rapid or disorganized thinking, impulsive or risky behavior, and irritability or intolerance of any disagreement or inconvenience. Learning to live with bipolar disorder means recognizing your personal warning signs of mania or hypomania. Rather than focusing on feeling happy as a warning signs, youll want to identify your personal indicators of rapid thinking, impulsivity, or irritability. Those indicators or warning signs might include things you notice inside of yourself or changes in your behavior .
Some people find that medications used to treat bipolar disorder make them feel dull or flatand less likely to experience happiness or positive feelings. That is not the goal of medication treatment for bipolar disorder, its an unwanted side effect. If you notice that your medication has that side effect, be sure to ask your doctor if there are better alternatives for you.
How To Rebuild Trust And Confidence In Yourself And In Others:
#1 Identify Your Mistaken Core Belief
Mostof us do not realize that the unhealthy behaviors we engage in are a result ofour core beliefs about ourselves. Try to explore your innermost belief aboutyourself and your value. Once you understand why you feel and react theway you do, it will be easier to manage your emotions and responses in themoment.
#2 Put a Cap on Negative Self-Talk
Weall have an inner dialogue. Do you pay attention to what you tell yourself?Keep a journal and, three times a day, write down any self-talk you canidentify. If it is negative, work toward shutting that down and giving yourselfgrace and patience. Be your own cheerleader.
#3 Challenge Your Core Belief
Whennasty feelings start to creep in, take a step back and challenge your corebelief. If you are telling yourself, Im not worth loving, counteract thatthought by telling yourself, I AM worth loving.
#4 Stop. Think. Validate Yourself.
Whenyou find yourself in a difficult situation, try following these simple steps tobetter how you are able to communicate.
#5 Make a Habit of Positive Self-Talk
What Support Options Are Available
People with bipolar disorder can turn to the International Bipolar Foundation for more information on the illness, personal stories about lying, and ways they can find treatment and help. Bipolar Lives, an online community to help people with bipolar disorder live healthy lives, also has a section on lying that may help those affected.
We also annually collect a number of the best blogs, , and , that can help anyone living with bipolar disorder and their friends and family learn more about the condition and manage their well-being. For more support, check out our Facebook community for mental health awareness.
When Youre Married To Someone With Bipolar Disorder
Error! You must specify a value for the Video ID, Width, Height and Anchor parameters to use this shortcode!
Learn more about bipolar disorder and relationships by reading our relationship blogs.
Bipolar disorder wears many faces. There are as many experiences with bipolar disorder as there are people with bipolar. These experiences run the gamut from wonderful and exciting to confusing, disappointing and devastating. This article addresses some of the issues that can arise when dealing with a spouse with bipolar disorder.
Like all individuals, people with bipolar disorder have many good attributes, but at times, they also display less desirable qualities, such as being withdrawn, irritable, moody, and depressed. They may be affectionate and loving sometimes and then cold and distant at other times. The person may welcome and enjoy sex one day, while rejecting affection the next day. These erratic behaviors can be quite challenging for all concerned, especially spouses.
At times the person with bipolar disorder may experience manic or hypomanic episodes during which they can be fun, interesting, talkative, upbeat and full of energy. At other times, the person may experience depression that effects them physically, spiritually and soulfully. The spouse might feel confused, not knowing how to deal with certain behaviors.
- Academic struggles
- Reckless behavior
- Extreme defiance
- Controlling behaviors
- Suicidal thoughts or attempts
What You Should Do If Your Loved One Has Bipolar Disorder
Caring for someone with bipolar disorder can cause stress, anxiety, and pain for friends and family. Although your loved one needs help for their illness, you also need to take care of yourself. There are several coping strategies for friends and family of a person with bipolar disorder. Here are some tips to try:
How Is Bipolar Disorder Diagnosed
To diagnose bipolar disorder, a doctor or other health care provider may:
- Complete a full physical exam.
- Order medical testing to rule out other illnesses.
- Refer the person for an evaluation by a psychiatrist.
A psychiatrist or other mental health professional diagnoses bipolar disorder based on the symptoms, lifetime course, and experiences of the individual. Some people have bipolar disorder for years before it is diagnosed. This may be because:
- Bipolar disorder has symptoms in common with several other mental health disorders. A doctor may think the person has a different disorder, such as schizophrenia or depression.
- Family and friends may notice the symptoms, but not realize that the symptoms are part of a more significant problem.
- People with bipolar disorder often have other health conditions, which can make it hard for doctors to diagnose bipolar disorder.
What Can I Do To Manage My Symptoms
You can learn to manage your symptoms by looking after yourself. Selfcare is how you take care of your diet, sleep, exercise, daily routine, relationships and how you are feeling.
What lifestyle changes can I make?
Making small lifestyle changes can improve your wellbeing and can help your recovery.
Routine helps many people with their mental wellbeing. It will help to give a structure to your day and may give you a sense of purpose. This could be a simple routine such as eating at the same time each day, going to bed at the same time each day and buying food once per week.
Your healthcare professionals should offer you a combined healthy eating, exercise and sleep programme.
You can find more information about wellbeing any physical health at:.
What are support groups?
You could join a support group. A support group is where people come together to share information, experiences and give each other support.
You might be able to find a local group by searching online. The charity Bipolar UK have an online support group. They also have face to face support groups in some areas of the country. Their contact details are in the Useful contacts at the bottom of this page.
What are recovery colleges?
Unfortunately, recovery colleges arent available in all areas. To see if there is a recovery college in your area you can use a search engine such as Google.
What is a Wellness Recovery Action Plan ?
You can find more information about Recovery by clicking .
But You Seem So Normal
Maybe the person with bipolar disorder is between cycles, or maybe they are good at hiding what they’re feeling. They may be in a hypomanic episode and only the good things about it are visible at the moment. Consider how this would sound if you had a serious illness such as cancer and someone said, “You can’t be sick, you look so normal!”
How To Love Someone With Bipolar Disorder: A Helpful Guide
Can a bipolar person love someone? Absolutely. Can someone with bipolar disorder have a normal relationship? With work from both you and your partner, yes. When someone you love has bipolar disorder, their symptoms can be overwhelming at times. But it is possible to work past this mental health condition in your relationship. Although we provide drug and alcohol detox in Boca, we also work with those people who struggle with mental illness and are sharing some tips on dealing with a loved one who has bipolar disorder.
Relationships Trust And Bipolar
I was first diagnosed with a mental illness aged just nine when I was diagnosed with depression. At 25 this changed to bipolar disorder with my condition and behaviour having escalated considerably over the years.
I had friends and had had a few short term relationships but aside from my family, I hadnt had a long term relationship. I had always assumed that nobody would want to be with someone who was always having erratic mood swings.
There is always the issue with relationships around when to tell someone you have a mental illness. It never seems like a good time, but it is inevitable that at some time the topic has to be broached! When I met Steve, the choice was taken out of my hands with surprising consequences.
I was at the height of a hypomanic episode when we met. On the one hand this gave me the confidence to go ahead and meet him, on the other I ran the risk of peaking and crashing, which is exactly what happened on our second date.
I remember very little of this evening, I don’t even remember how it started. All I remember is that there was a lot of shouting and screaming, that things even got violent, but I couldn’t say at whom or for what.
I self-harmed very badly during the episode and was suicidal, so much so that Steve had to talk me down from a river-side ledge. After doing this he sat me on a bench and said, “I don’t care what’s wrong, or how hard you push me away, I’m not going anywhere.”
Help us raise awareness
They Sometimes Consider Going Off Their Medication
This is not true for all individuals with bipolar disorder, but when the medications begin to work and stabilize the everyday experiences of the individual, it can take some time to adjust. The life of an individual with bipolar disorder is filled with extremes. When medications begin to remove some of those extremes, it may feel somewhat boring. This sensation typically passes as the individual realizes this is a healthier way of life, but before that realization can come, he or she may be tempted to return to the extremes.
Risk Factors For Lying
can occur along with bipolar disorder. This can spur and even exacerbate compulsive lying. Your loved one may be denying their addiction or may want to cover up their misdeeds. The deeper into addiction they go, the more often they may lie.
This also applies to other erratic behaviors common with the disorder, including binge drinking and compulsive gambling. A person may want to cover up their risky behaviors and associated consequences by lying.
Information For Family Carers And Friends
How can I get support?
You can speak to your GP. You should be given your own assessment through NHS mental health services to work out what effect your caring role is having on your health. And what support you need. Such as practical support and emergency support.
These are some other options for you:
- Join a carers service
- Join a carers support group
- Ask your local authority for a carers assessment
- Read about the condition
- Apply for welfare benefits for carers
Rethink Mental Illness run carers support groups in some areas. You can also search for groups on the Carers Trust website:
- Rethink Mental Illness:
- Carers Trust: ;
How can I support the person I care for?
You might find it easier to support someone with bipolar disorder if you understand their symptoms, treatment and self-management skills.
You should be aware of what you can do if you are worried about their mental state. It can be helpful to know contact information for their mental health team or GP.
You could find out from your relative if they have a crisis plan. You could help your relative to make a crisis plan if they dont have one.
As a carer you should be involved in decisions about care planning. But you dont have a legal right to this. The medical team should encourage the person that you care for to allow information to be shared with you.
You can find out more information about:
How Is Nimh Addressing Bipolar Disorder
The National Institute of Mental Health conducts and supports research on bipolar disorder that increases our understanding of its causes and helps develop new treatments. Researchers continue to study genetics and bipolar disorder, brain function, and symptoms in children and teens who have bipolar disorder, as well as family history in health and behavior.
Learn more about NIMHs research priorities and current studies.
Symptoms Of Bipolar Disorder
If you struggle with symptoms of bipolar disorder, it is important to understand when it is time to seek supportive treatment. The following are signs that your bipolar disorder may be causing a serious problem in your life:
- Self-destructive behaviors Self-destructive behaviors may be a result of either mania or depression. A self-destructive person may do things that harm the quality of life, such as have an extra-marital affair, drive recklessly, commit a crime, suddenly quit a job, drop out of school or start arguments with loved ones.
- Self-injury Similar to self-destructive behaviors, self-injury or self-harm involves harming yourself by cutting, burning or otherwise injuring yourself. Self-injury can be dangerous and deadly and requires immediate assistance.
- Suicidal feelings Sometimes the highs of mania become a violent rage, or the lows of depression become overwhelming. If you experience any thoughts of suicide, please seek help immediately.
- Damage to relationships Bipolar disorder can cause a person to behave erratically. Arguments or relationship problems lead many people to seek treatment. Abusive behavior toward loved ones is a serious sign of trouble.
- Breaks from reality If you become so manic that you begin to act strangely, hallucinate or experience unusual personality changes, it is time to seek help. Similarly, if you become so depressed that you begin to experience strange phenomena or lose touch with reality, seek help immediately.