How Not To Run Away From Your Bipolar Spouse

Spouses of the patients of bipolar disorder need to be the caretakers and care givers of the relationship. They are usually expected to take care of the patient in spite of all the family related problems.

Bipolar patients need support from their family members. Whole-hearted support and counseling is proven to be very effective and if it is from the spouse it has even better influence. Spouses of the patients of bipolar disorder need to be the caretakers and care givers of the relationship. They are usually expected to take care of the patient in spite of all the family related problems.

If you have found out that your husband or wife bipolar disorder first of all, you need to be calm and composed and take the situation in your hands. There are host of support groups and information on bipolar disorder (or manic depression) to enable you to given a direction of how to cope with the new challenges.

Some of the do’s and don’t for coping with your husband or wife struggling with bipolar disorder.

DO'S

•Gather as much information as possible on the disorder so that you are able to help and understanding the needs of your spouse. Sources like books, internet and magazines are an excellent source of information to prepare you for the unexpected and enable you to support your spouse to the maximum.

•Be aware that bipolar disorder is a treatable disease. You should try and help your spouse to manage the symptoms and offer your love and understanding.

•Reach out for proper and experienced professional help so that you as well as your spouse benefits from it. Also taking help from support group (or two) for spouses and families offer great comfort and support and you will feel that you are not alone in the battle of fight against bipolar disorder.

DON’T

•Don't be judgmental about your spouse suffering from bipolar disorder.

•Don’t brand the patient as being mad as this disorder is caused due to chemical imbalance which is beyond the control of the patient. Offer complete support as this disorder is similar to any other disease caused by chemical imbalance like diabetes.

•Don't self-pity yourself and abuse the patient as your spouse is already feeling low and depressed about the disorder.

•Don't put pressure on your spouse on for mode and timeframe for recovery. This will increase their stress level and they won’t be able to control their chemical imbalance.

•Do not put pressure on the patients about their alcohol or drug abuse. You would need professional counselor to rehabilitate the patient.

•Help your spouse to manage the illness on his or her own. Don't be too protective as it might help him or her to become independent. Let them do their things themselves like taking medicines, visiting doctors etc.

•As patients are usually very sensitive to attitudes and reactions of family members and people around them, they are able to pick up insincerity and negativity whether verbal or in body language immediately.