Family & Friends of Bipolar Support Group
This community is dedicated to parents, siblings, grandparents, other relatives and friends of someone who is Bipolar. The purpose of this community is to help families and friends develop greater patience and understanding, as well as maintain a positive, caring relationships with those diagnosed as Bipolar.
Hi,
My 23yo daughter was diagnosed over Christmas with Bipolar I and was hospitalized. I am looking for online support. I am overwhelmed with how to manage this early stage while her medication begins to take effect. Anyone willing to share information about the early stages?
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Which explains the mysterious fevers and my extra fatigue. I'm so glad I pushed for answers.
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Due to my increased paranoia, anxiety, and a panic attack over the weekend, my psychiatrist has put me back in a full dose of Zyprexa until further notice. Every time I think I'm getting ahead something happens and it's back to square one. I knew he was gonna do this but I can't help feeling disappointed. It is what it is.
It can take quite some time at times to find the right med regime as what works for one may not work for another
Coping skills along with the meds are important ... so what helps her?... journaling , gratitude, exercise, meditation.... coping skills that work for her
Therapy can help if she's able to get into it once medication is working
With regards to family just love and support her.... Peer support can also be helpful for her because we do 'get it'...
Big hug.... Try not to despair even though we don't have a curable disorder we do have a treatable disorder.....xo
1. Understand and keep track of her medication particularly if she is living with you. Likewise work to check on medical appointments. You need to be well-organized even if she isn't.
2. Your role is ultimately limited. You can work hard, but ultimately they have to change. And if things don't improve on days 1, 2, 3 and 4, you have to be willing to work on things that can help on 5 and 6.
3. Be careful of your own anger Dealing with bipolar people can get frustrating but anger or yelling are generally unproductive. When you see seemingly obvious things that could make her feel better, but she's not doing them, that can be frustrating. If you feel anger and you think that may not be helpful, consider going to the other room.
4. She will be up and down, try to have your discussions when she is feeling well, though she may not be able to follow through.
5. Exercise, yoga, activities, friendship, shopping, all can help.
6. Work on creating a favorable environment for her.
7. Try to have her read, attend seminars, podcasts, and ideally something will be productive.
8. Therapy is not a panacea for many, and she may have to switch therapists.
And that can be frustrating today, when they are in such great demand.