Caring for a family member with Bipolar Disorder
***TRIGGER WARNING: This article mentions suicide.
We often hear about the challenges of living with bipolar disorder. The reality is bipolar disorder can lead to life-threatening behaviors and health problems if left untreated. People with bipolar disorder may engage in risky behavior during manic episodes, such as substance abuse, excessive spending, and unprotected sex, which can have serious consequences. Also, the risk of suicide is significantly higher in individuals with bipolar disorder compared to the general population and even compared to people with major depressive disorder. Studies have shown that up to 20% of people with bipolar disorder attempt suicide at some point in their lives, and that up to 4% of people with the condition die by suicide. In comparison, the suicide rate in the general population is about 0.5% and the lifetime risk of suicide in people with major depressive disorder is estimated to be around 9-15%. It's important to note that suicide is a preventable cause of death, and that early identification and treatment of bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder, can help reduce the risk of suicide and improve overall outcomes for those living with the condition and anyone who is experiencing suicidal thoughts should seek help immediately. Additionally, the stress and turmoil associated with bipolar disorder can negatively impact physical health, such as by increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health conditions. That's why it’s so important for people with bipolar disorder to receive proper treatment and support.
This support is often given by family members. Having a family member with bipolar disorder can often throw the whole family into turmoil. There is a significant impact on family members of those who are affected by the condition. Some of the ways in which it can affect family members include:
Stress and anxiety: Family members may experience stress and anxiety due to the unpredictable and intense mood swings that are associated with bipolar disorder.
Emotional strain: Caring for a loved one with bipolar disorder can be emotionally draining, and family members may experience feelings of anxiety, guilt, frustration, or helplessness. Other members of the family, such as siblings, may feel invisible or unimportant when there is so much focus on the sibling with bipolar disorder.
Financial burden: Bipolar disorder can be a financial burden for families, as the cost of treatment and medications can add up over time.
Relationship challenges: Bipolar disorder can cause relationship challenges for family members, as it may lead to mood swings, irritability, and impulsive behavior that can strain relationships.
Disruption to daily life: Bipolar disorder can disrupt daily life for families, as it may lead to missed work or school, difficulty in managing responsibilities, and a general sense of unpredictability.
It is important for family members to seek support and understanding, either through therapy, support groups, or other resources. This can help family members better understand and cope with the effects of bipolar disorder on their lives and relationships. Every person in the family should feel valued and supported. The worry and stress that can accompany caring for a loved one with bipolar disorder can be intense and can have a significant negative impact on your mental and physical health.
Therapy can provide several benefits for caregivers of mentally ill family members, including:
Stress relief: Caregiving can be emotionally and physically taxing, and therapy can provide a supportive environment for caregivers to manage their stress levels.
Coping skills: Therapy can help caregivers develop coping strategies for dealing with the challenges of caregiving.
Self-care: Therapy can help caregivers prioritize their own mental and physical health, which can prevent burnout and improve their ability to provide care.
Support: Therapy can provide a safe and confidential space for caregivers to express their thoughts and feelings and receive support from a mental health professional.
Understanding: Therapy can help caregivers better understand their loved one's mental illness, which can improve their ability to provide effective support.
Therapy can be a valuable resource for caregivers, helping them manage the emotional and physical demands of caregiving and maintain their own well-being. The supporters need their own support.
