Posts Tagged ‘bipolar resources’

Bipolar Support

Sunday, October 12th, 2008

Bipolar Support- Family and Friends Count!

Last modified on 2008-10-18 22:05:50 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Bipolar disorder can be a confusing and emotional roller coaster for those affected with the disorder. Bipolar support is essential, whether it is via family, friends, or support groups and therapy. Having family or friends who surround you with love and understanding can make a world of difference in your behavior and though patterns.

One thing that is common in adults suffering from bipolar disorder is the urge to stop taking your medication during “neutral” periods, because you think that you are cured, or more commonly, you miss the manic highs of your disorder. When you have a strong support system in place, they can help you over come the urge to stop taking your medications, and avoid you experiencing another episode of spiraling out of control.

Another benefit to having bipolar support from your family and friends, is during times of crisis, when depression gets the better of you and you feel suicidal, your family is there to provide comfort and help, and keep you from doing something irreversible.

If you don’t have family or friends supporting you, seek out a support group. I am sure you doctor could recommend several. Bipolar support groups are excellent ways to connect with others suffering just like you, and gives you the opportunity to share your thoughts and feelings without fear of ridicule. You are not alone in this life, and a bipolar support group can help you remember that, and be there for you during hard times.

When you join a bipolar support group, make a commitment. Commit to becoming a regular member and go as often as possible, not just during your dark times. In many cases if you show up during neutral periods when you are feeling good and happy, you can be an inspiration to others suffering from deep sadness. This in turn can inspire you to continue on your road to wellness. Bipolar support is integral to your success in becoming healthy, whether from family or friends or therapy. People are people no matter what, and just feeling that connection can go a long way from digging you out of the dark lonely place you may feel stuck in.

Bipolar Personality- Should You Share Your Diagnosis?

Last modified on 2008-10-18 13:41:03 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Dealing with a bipolar personality is becoming more and more prevalent. People are diagnosed every single day with bipolar disorder, and a common question for those struggling with a bipolar personality may be, should I tell other people about my illness?

Followed by this comes questions like who should I tell? Who shouldn’t I share it with? How much information is too much? Having a bipolar personality is nothing you should be ashamed of. It is an illness just like any other illness, and can be greatly improved with proper care and treatment.

Having a bipolar personality could end up being something that is just a reality for you, that you will have to deal with every day of your life in some way or another. That being said, why put yourself under additional stress by trying to keep it under wraps, or keep your disorder a secret from those around you.

Of course, you don’t necessarily have to go around broadcasting your illness to every one that you meet, definitely not. Dealing with a bipolar personality is a private issue, and you should only be sharing it with those you are comfortable sharing it with. If that means that you want to tell your boss or your co workers you are suffering from bipolar personality, then by all means, do so.

If you prefer to keep the sharing limited to close family and friends, then that is your choice too, and there is no reason that you have to share your struggles with your boss or co workers as well. One thing to keep in mind, is that when you do share something like struggling with a bipolar personality with others, whether it is co workers or friends, be prepared for questions about it. Not everyone is familiar with the disorder, despite it’s rising prevalence, and some may have questions, and truly desire to learn more in order to be more supportive of you. In that case, sharing details about having a bipolar personality can help others be more accepting and open minded, which is always a good thing!