We all know that loving or living with a person who is suffering from bipolar disorder is a challenging journey. Sometimes, you have to walk on eggshells so it doesn’t trigger them in any way. In the middle of the whole scenario, you might get into an argument, which can drench you in helplessness. And now you don’t know what to do next!
If you are someone who is searching for how to deal with a bipolar person, then you are at the right place. We understand you want to support people who are struggling around us, but at the same time, we all also want to protect our peace and avoid escalating intense situations.
This blog post is going to help you understand bipolar disorder and how to deal with, react to, support, and stay grounded during the situation. No matter who you are, learning how to help someone with bipolar manic depression starts with understanding and empathy.
Understanding the Basics: Bipolar Disorder
People often consider bipolar disorder as mood swings, but it’s generally not. Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition in which an individual has sudden/fluctuating moods. Specific individuals suffering from this disorder may have sudden shifts in their mood, behavior, and energy.
People with psychological conditions are either very overwhelmed or, at a certain point, they just go down the hill, like so helpless. The mood or behavior fluctuation sometimes occurs on the same day or over weeks.
Manic, Depressive, and Mixed Episodes Explained
In manic or bipolar disorder, individuals often talk a lot, take risky actions, and stay energetic despite being sleep-deprived. While people suffering from depressive episodes usually feel empty, low, sad, and worthless, they withdraw from places with friends and family.
However, people suffering from mixed episodes suffer from all the symptoms of depression and mania. While the individual feels restless, down, or sad, they manage to show full motivation and spirit.
Therefore, living with bipolar can be a very challenging journey, while understanding the patterns can help you respond more intentionally instead of reacting to the situations more emotionally.
Recognizing Bipolar Triggers and Warning Signs Early
The most encouraging thing you can do while learning how to deal with someone with bipolar disorder is to understand the triggers and warning signs. We can’t prevent the signs, but we can help manage the triggers.
Triggers include changes in medication or routine, seasonal or hormonal changes, substance use, and high levels of stress. In comparison, the early signs of mania include risky choices, increased irritability or sensitivity, suddenly talking faster or more than usual, and insomnia.
Once you can see the signs and symptoms kicking in, it does not mean you have to respond or fix them immediately, but you should be prepared enough to provide care and know how to handle the situation.
The best thing anyone can do while they have to care for someone with bipolar disorder is to be available to help without getting overwhelmed and anxious.
How to De-Escalate a Conflict Without Making Things Worse
The reality is that you can’t control someone else’s emotions, but you can always regulate your emotions and how you respond to them.
If your nearest and dearest individual is suffering from bipolar disorder or a manic state, their condition can even get worse sometimes. This is why understanding how to deal with a bipolar person during an argument or conflict is less about saying and more about understanding, staying calm, and being respectful.
Here are a few conflict de-escalation strategies that work:
- You should stay calm because if you and the bipolar person react the same way, the situation will escalate, so stay calm and grounded.
- Sometimes, giving the patients some space also works, but ensure you say good words before giving space, like – I care about you, and walk to speak when both feel better/calm.
- Don’t be logical if your loved one is very emotional and delusional about their feelings. Try to validate their feelings instead of giving your own point of view.
- Always make a rule to start the conversation as (I) instead of (you).
For example, you are acting crazy. Instead, you should be saying (I feel overwhelmed about our fights or arguments).
What Not to Say – And What to Say Instead
It is essential to understand what to say and what not to say, specifically when someone has a very fragile emotional state. Saying a small but incorrect thing can trigger the whole situation, which can lead to conflict, defense, and shame. Some important things to keep in mind can include:
Don’t Say:
- Why are you doing this?
- You are just being too crazy!
- This is all in your head.
Instead, Try:
- I know it feels intense, and I am here for you.
- I can see you are overwhelmed. How may I help you?
- Is there anything I can do to make you feel better?
Long-Term Bipolar Support: Encouraging Stability Without Control
When you are on a journey to learn how to deal with a bipolar person, it is vital to support them without even making them realize it. Since it has been seen that long-term help always empowers. It is necessary to involve your loved one in the following activities to aid in better recovery and healing. Follow these tips and see how it all goes:
- Get at least 6 to 8 hours of sleep every 24 hours.
- Maintain 40 minutes of daily physical activity by playing games or exercising.
- Be supportive and give them soft reminders instead of asking directly.
- Always celebrate small achievements, like baby steps.
You Don’t Have to Navigate It Alone – Shine Mental Health Can Help
Supporting or living with people going through a mental health condition is often overwhelming, but you are not alone in this.
Shine Mental Health provides expert care for individuals and their families facing challenges. If you are unsure about how to help someone with bipolar, manic, or depressive disorder, and you are emotionally drained, our team is here to help you out!
We provide all types of therapies to individuals and families, along with the tools that help individuals live with bipolar disorder more peacefully, while guiding you through tailored guidance that meets your needs.
FAQ’s
How can I support someone with bipolar disorder?
It’s challenging to support or live with someone who is suffering from bipolar disorder. You can support them, listen to them, take care of their dos and don’ts, and take them away from their triggers. Make them feel heard, seen, and felt.
What should you not say to someone with bipolar disorder?
There are a few words or phrases one should never say to anyone suffering from not only bipolar but also from any mental health condition. For example, like you are acting crazy, you are thinking too much, and more phrases like this.
How do I set boundaries with a bipolar loved one?
Setting boundaries with loved ones involves open communication, understanding the other person’s condition, and being respectful in all situations.
How can you de-escalate a bipolar episode?
Of course, it’s not easy to deescalate a bipolar episode, but maintaining a healthy and calm environment can deescalate them.
Is therapy helpful for bipolar disorder?
Yes, it varies person to person, but therapy is helpful in managing symptoms and helping individuals get back to a normal life.
