How to Help Your Bipolar Spouse

Video Transcript

"Hi. My name is Dr. Art Bowler. And I'm a psychologist in Manhattan, New York City, where I have my own private practice. In this clip I'm going to discuss how to help your bi-polar spouse. First, it's important to know what bi-polar disorder is. Bi-polar disorder, while there are many kinds, basically is evidenced by shifts in mood from mania where a, an individual has increased energy or irritability and periods of depression. How to help your, your bi-polar spouse. Well, first of all it's important to note that the presence of bi-polar disorder may exist. Make notes of the mood changes and maybe even on a calendar. Because in the event that bi-polar disorder is evidenced, you can really help your psychologist or psychiatrist in having this information. Because bi-polar disorder shifts in different ways and different cycles. Also, offer support and talk to the person about the disorder and how they're feeling. And also try to help them notice that their, their moods have been shifting rather rapidly. Or that you've noticed a change in shift in their mood. Sometimes it's difficult for individuals with bi-polar disorder to notice it themselves. So anything you can do to give them more information is helpful. This is Dr. Art Bowler and this has been how to help your bi-polar spouse."