Bipolar Disorder Health Center

It may be very hard to take that first step to help yourself. It may take time, but you can get better with treatment.

To help yourself:

• Talk to your doctor about treatment options and progress.
• Keep a regular routine, such as eating meals at the same time every day and going to sleep at the same time every night.
• Try to get enough sleep.
• Stay on your medication.
• Learn about warning signs signaling a shift into depression or mania.

Expect your symptoms to improve gradually, not immediately.

How can I help a friend or relative who has bipolar disorder?

If you know someone who has bipolar disorder, it affects you too. The first and most important thing you can do is help him or her get the right diagnosis and treatment. You may need to make the appointment and go with him or her to see the doctor. Encourage your loved one to stay in treatment.

To help a friend or relative, you can:

• offer emotional support, understanding, patience, and encouragement
• learn about bipolar disorder so you can understand what your friend or relative is experiencing
• talk to your friend or relative and listen carefully
• listen to feelings your friend or relative expresses-be understanding about situations that may trigger bipolar symptoms
• invite your friend or relative out for positive distractions, such as walks, outings, and other activities
• remind your friend or relative that, with time and treatment, he or she can get better

Never ignore comments about your friend or relative harming himself or herself. Always report such comments to his or her therapist or doctor.