Support a boyfriend or girlfriend with a mental health issue.
A person with a mental health condition can experience mood swings.Depression can cause extreme sadness, feelings of worthlessness, and fatigue, while mania can feel excited and euphoric.Being there for your boyfriend or girlfriend during a manic episode is one way you can support them.Supporting your partner is important, but it's also important to care for yourself.
Step 1: Ask them about how the disorder affects them.
People with the disorder can manifest in different ways.You can offer better support if you know how your partner experiences their symptoms.Discuss how they experience depression and mania.When you have episodes, can you tell me what you experience?It's a good idea to read about the disorder.Your partner may not experience all of the symptoms listed.They may have atypical symptoms that aren't listed.You should be able to accept your partner's condition and behaviors.A manic person may engage in risky behaviors.Discuss your concerns with your partner.
Step 2: Listen.
Your partner needs to feel heard if they're feeling manic or depressed.They are most likely experiencing intense thoughts and mood swings.They should be able to share their issues in a safe place.You can still comment on what they say.It must be awful to feel that way.If you say something like, "Stop talking like that" or "Don't be crazy" it can make the situation worse.Your relationship may feel one-sided at times if you have trouble with it.This is not true for everyone.Understand your partner's habits.If your relationship feels one-sided, talk to them.
Step 3: Tell them that you want to be there for them.
People need to hear how you feel.It's possible that your partner will tell them that you're only around because you feel obligated or nice.Let them know that you care about them.I want you to know that I'm here for you, and I know you're going through a tough time right now.You're important to me and I will support you, but don't assume you know what they need.Remember that you aren't a caregivers, and let them ask for help when they need it.
Step 4: Show you care by doing nice things to relieve stress for them.
In some cases, this could mean helping them do chores.Sometimes, you can treat them to a meal or a bubble bath.You can show your partner that you value them by doing nice things.You take off some of the pressure that can cause their disorder to get worse.You don't have to do everything for your partner.A single favor can go a long way, such as helping them clean up their space, taking out the trash, or packing them a lunch.
Step 5: There are symptoms of a manic episode.
During a manic episode, your partner may be feeling better.They could also feel anxious.Your partner could become reckless because of mania.Be aware of the following symptoms: being excessively upbeat, wired, or jumpy, having increased energy behaving impulsively, buying too much, abusing drugs/alcohol, increased sexuality, etc.Having a reduced need for sleep, having exaggerated feelings of well-being, being agitated or aggressive, showing excessive self-confidence, and talking quickly and excessively.
Step 6: Be a positive influence.
They shouldn't be stimulated more.You can suggest healthy activities, such as spending time outdoors, if you keep your mood balanced.Substances that can cause symptoms, such as drinking, should be avoided.Don't invite them to a party.Pick dates that don't involve coffee, depressants, or alcohol.You could go for a long hike in the woods or swimming in water that isn't crowded.Before you go, ask how they handle manic symptoms and when you should call for help.It's a good idea to arrange ways to help them take their medication, as they may be tempted to stop when they feel crazy.
Step 7: Dates that work off excess energy are the ones you choose.
Don't put your relationship on hold because of an episode.Pick dates that meet their needs.Pick dates that allow them to stay on the move when they have a lot of energy.Walking around the park spending the day at the beach Rock climbing Dancing at a cafe Hiking in the woods
Step 8: Suppress impulsive actions.
mania can cause impulsive behaviors, such as reckless spending, gambling, abusing drugs and alcohol, or increased sexuality, because it makes you feel on top of the world.Due to their disorder, your partner may not be able to see the consequences of their actions.You can invite them to join you in a less impulsive activity if you notice them acting impulsively.When you and your partner go to the mall, they start to pick up items they can't afford.You could say, "Hey, I'm sure this stuff would look great on you, but you already have so many nice outfits."You should think about this purchase for a day.They may choose to continue with their impulsive behaviors anyway.Stick to the boundaries you've set with them.Leave the situation if you don't want to be around these behaviors.They can deal with the consequences of their actions.
Step 9: Help them rest more.
You can invite them to do the same by sticking to your own regular sleep times.Even if it's at odd hours, allow them to sleep whenever they can.They might stay up all night but then crash in the afternoon.It's better for their health if they sleep.Turn down the lights if you live with your partner.These activities are very stimulating, so don't watch TV or play games with your partner.
Step 10: Symptoms of depression can be seen.
Your depressed partner might feel worthless.They may feel numb in some cases.They could feel tired or restless.If you feel sad, empty, worthless, and/or feelings of guilt, watch for the following symptoms.
Step 11: Accept that their emotions have nothing to do with you.
Being around someone who is depressed can make you feel down.You might feel like you aren't doing enough for them to be happy.This is not the case.It's not your fault that your partner is depressed.Your partner may appreciate your presence even if they don't show it.
Step 12: Help them set a small goal.
Depression makes everything seem pointless, even your partner's favorite activities.They can improve their mood by working toward a small goal.Help them get started by suggesting an easy goal.The goal might be to get out of the house on Saturday or complete a school assignment.You could set a goal to write a poem.The goal could be to cook dinner tonight.
Step 13: Encourage them to use healthy methods.
It's normal to try to cope with strong emotions.People with the disorder may not always cope well.They could turn to drinking.Instead, remind them how good they feel after doing those activities by doing it with them.It's not your responsibility to fix them.There are some examples of creative expression.
Step 14: They should be offered genuine comments of their support.
It's not helpful to say things like "It will all be okay" or "You'll feel better in time."Give them encouragement that is specific to their situation.You could say, "I know you are struggling, but we are in this together, and we have been successful in the past."You can get through this.You started to feel better after you got back into your routine.
Step 15: Don't be angry with them.
Recovering from depression takes time.Give them time to recuperate.The situation will only get worse if they are rushed.If you need a break, leave and put your thoughts in order.Spend time with a friend or family member.Think of it like any other illness.Depression is the same as the flu because you can't rush it.
Step 16: They could be suicidal.
Everyone who is depressed is not suicidal.It's a serious concern, so be aware of the risk.They should call emergency services or go to the emergency room if they want to act in their best interest.Threats of suicide, giving away prized possessions, and getting their affairs in order are some of the signs to watch for.
Step 17: Speak in a calm way to them.
Use a kind, gentle tone to help them stay open to what you have to say.Help them see that you care about them and don't attack them.Take a deep breath or count to 10 when you are upset.You might say, "I have noticed that you have been down lately, while last month you were all over the place with energy."I want you to feel better.You may need to talk about the need for treatment multiple times if you are willing to speak to someone about how you're feeling.
Step 18: They should be given resources about treatment options.
It's common for people with bipolar disorder to stop treatment when they don't have the worst of their symptoms.You can still notice issues with their behavior or signs of an episode.They are more likely to get treatment if you show them educational materials.You could give them a book, a magazine article, or a brochure from your doctor's office.You could also send them links to websites that are helpful.
Step 19: Help them make a doctor's appointment.
It's difficult to find a good doctor if your partner is in a depression.It's a good idea for you to help them find a doctor.It's best to find a Psychiatrist who can treat the disorder.You can find a doctor through the internet.If you've been together for a while, you could offer to take them to the doctor so they don't get nervous.
Step 20: You can find a support group for them.
You can connect with other people who have dealt with similar issues in support groups.The group will be able to share tips about what works for them and understand what you and your partner are going through.There are support groups in your area.You can check with the library.You can search online.If you can't find a support group in your area, you could try an online forum.
Step 21: Encourage them to take their prescribed drugs.
People with bipolar disorder often stop their medication.People with bipolar disorder often think they don't need their medication because of their moods.A relapse can be triggered by stopping medication.Encourage them to keep taking the medication.You've been skipping your medication, so I want to know if you're doing well.Please keep taking them because they have been a great support for you.
Step 22: Help them keep their bodies healthy.
It's a great way to manage symptoms.They help depressed people avoid sinking into depression and care for themselves, and they help manic people remember to sleep.If you live with your partner, you should create a routine for your household with regular meal times, chores and a sleep.Establish a schedule for communicating via phone or text if you don't live with your partner.Send a text when it's time for bed to remind them to eat.
Step 23: Work with your partner to create a plan.
A WRAP allows you and your partner to establish a plan for how to deal with manic or depression symptoms.Their doctor will usually help them with this plan.If you have a plan in place, you can help them in a way they've already agreed to.
Step 24: Tell them which behaviors you won't tolerate.
If your partner's behavior is not reasonable, you can step away.Walk away from the situation if they are acting aggressively.If necessary, tell them that you will not tolerate this type of behavior.I'm leaving if you hit me or yell at me.If you live together, you might have more behaviors that you won't accept.You might not accept a refusal to help with chores or reckless spending of joint funds.Consider what they can and cannot do.I'm happy to help you if you're not feeling well.I need you to pick up after yourself and load the dishwasher.
Step 25: Work with them to come up with a plan to deal with mental health crises.
When they're in a crisis, decide what to do and who to call.You should have their doctor's number, knowledge about the medications they're taking, and contact information for their closest family members.Let them know what you consider to be an emergency situation by asking them what they need for you.Decide what kind of crisis will prompt a call to their doctor or family member.They went through 3 days of sadness and fatigue.When will you call emergency services?If they threaten suicide, you might call emergency services.
Step 26: When the bipolar is talking, not your partner.
Similar to other mental illnesses, bipolar disorder can cause your partner to fight.They may say things they don't mean.These things are not good, but remember that it's not your partner talking.While depressed they may say things like, "I wish I were dead" or "You would be better off without you."They might get really angry or excited during mania.When you're trying to help them stop impulsive behaviors, they could yell, "Leave me alone."Take a break from your partner if they abuse you.Spending time with your friends is something you enjoy.Don't shout, name calling, insult, or threaten language.
Step 27: Do not allow problematic behaviors.
Don't give them alcohol, drugs, or other things that will help them engage in poor behavior.If you know that reckless spending is bad for your partner's long-term health, don't do it.You might think that this is the only way to help them, but it's actually hurting them.Don't focus on a short-term fix.Offer a more helpful solution if they ask you to enable them.You could say, "I'm not going to get you alcohol, but I will run you a nice bubble bath."
Step 28: Don't focus your life around your partner.
It doesn't have to be all-consuming to care for a person with an illness.It's harmful for you and your partner to be in a co-dependency relationship.You should have a life of your own.Take a break when you need it.You can keep a coffee date with a friend, keep up with your hobbies, or take a class on your own.A person bases their entire identity on caring for another person.The person who is cared for becomes dependent on the caregivers to meet their needs.It's harmful because the person being cared for neglects their own life.A therapist can help you set better boundaries and improve your relationship if you're worried about co-dependency.On your own or as a couple, you can work with a therapist.
Step 29: Take a break for self care.
If you're going to care for them, you need to take care of yourself.Do things that make you happy, and give yourself time to de-stress.Make sure you eat well, get enough sleep, and keep up with your responsibilities.Take care of your healthy routines.It's not bad to take good care of yourself or be well.Being well helps you support your partner.