How to Create a Safety Net for Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a very challenging mental illness that impacts the lives of not only the patient, but friends, family, co-workers and associates. With proper care and treatment, those suffering from bipolar disorder are able to lead normal, healthy and happy lives. Working closely with a psychiatrist, establishing a solid routine and medication schedule, and being honest about the disorder with friends and family can help to make the treatment for bipolar disorder successful.

Instructions

1. Be open and honest with those close to you about your disorder. While your mail carrier and gardener don't need to know that you have bipolar disorder, your family, close friends and maybe even co-workers do. There's no need to share your entire history, but telling those around you that you're being treated for bipolar disorder can make accounting for the odd behavior that comes with manic breaks a lot easier.

2. Listen to feedback from your family and friends. Those close to you will be the first to tell you if they think you're acting a little off. Though your first reaction may be to protest their intrusion, there's valuable information to be learned from how your family and friends perceive your behavior. If those close to you mention a change in your behavior, take the better safe than sorry route and schedule an appointment with your psychiatrist.

3. Set up regular appointments with your psychiatrist. Talk to your doctor about your feelings and goals for your treatment. The two of you can decide on both the frequency and length of appointments. Then commit to abide by the agreed upon schedule. While it isn't acceptable to miss an appointment with your psychiatrist it is always acceptable to arrange additional appointments if you feel you're having problems with your treatment.

4. Take your medication on a schedule to be sure you don't miss doses. Talk to your psychiatrist about when each medication should be taken and adhere strictly to the agreed upon schedule. Set a reoccurring alarm on your cell phone or watch to remind you to take your medication at the same time every day.

5. Join a bipolar support group. Participating in a support group can give you the moral support you need to keep your bipolar treatment on track. Ask your psychiatrist for support group recommendations and then attend the meetings regularly.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider wearing a Medic Alert bracelet that lists your medications. Behavior during depressions or manic breaks can be dangerous. If you are ever stopped for questionable behavior wearing a Medic Alert identification bracelet or necklace will alert the authorities that your problem is medical so that they can assist you in finding the treatment you need.

• Do not self-medicate. Some people suffering from bipolar disorder have been known to use prescription drugs, alcohol, and illegal narcotics to try to treat their bipolar disorder on their own. Take only medication prescribed by your psychiatrist and consult your doctor before using any vitamins or nutritional supplements as they may have an impact on the performance of your medication.