Bipolar Disorder Support Group

Bipolar disorder is not just a single disorder, but a category of mood disorders marked by periods of abnormally high energy and euphoria, often accompanied by bouts of clinical depression. This is the place to talk about your experience with bipolar disorder, learn from others' experiences, and find support.

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Momofonechild 08/22/2009

I have a 20 year friendship with a girl I met when we were both pregnant. We've been close and raised our families together. I always knew she had anxiety problems but she wasn't diagnosed with BD until about 10 years ago. She seems to be getting worse as the years go by... more frequent episodes of depression and anxiety. She is on medication, but can't afford to see a therapist on a regular basis. She pretty much relies on her friends for psychotherapy. I just don't know how to "counsel" her anymore...I try to just listen...but it is so draining and began to affect my life really negatively. (I sometimes need a listening ear too). I feel so bad because sometimes I just try to ignore and avoid her....I just don't know what to do anymore. Any suggestions?

deleted_user 08/22/2009

There is also a friends and family of Bipolar support group, perhaps they can help you with this as well.

http://www.dailystrength.org/c/Family-and-Friends-of-Bipolar/support-group

Here is what I think...You need to look at the friendship you have had over the past 20 years. Look at the relationship and ask yourself this...

Is the relationship toxic for you?

Yes we beepers can be difficult to get along with, and relationships are hard for us. It sounds to me like you have know her for a long time and she sees you as a part of her support structure and that is important to her. Sit back and look at the whole picture. If this relationship is toxic then perhaps you need to take yourself out of the situation.

(((HUGS)))

deleted_user 08/22/2009

Instead of friends counciling her I'd reccomend books, or DS honestly. There's a lot of good advice and material here as well as people who are experienced with their own conditions and can offer stories an alternatives to therapy since she can't afford any

Momofonechild 08/22/2009

Thanks Belinda, I didn't realize there was a group for" friends of ".The relationship is at times toxic...but we have a history together and lots of good memories. Thanks again.

deleted_user 08/22/2009

She is sick and probobly afraid. We are all afraid. Just listen to her and hug her when you think she needs one. You already seem like a great friend by comeing here and joining a support group. Your doing great. But I would suggest her to read up on BP. Get a serious knowledge of what it is and how life can be more level by doing certain things. Even foods and drinks can make us sicker ~ sugar < caffiene. She needs to try to work out when she has 5 minutes. She needs to have personal time. She needs to learn to meditate. There are so many things she can do for herself. Im just learning some of them now and i was diagnosed 4 years ago. Just keep your ears open to listen and thats all you can really do. She knows you cant change her ...believe she knows.

deleted_user 08/22/2009

Is there a health department in your city that might offer free mental health assitance? Has she checked into this?

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