How to Talk to A Bipolar

Posted on March 24, 2006 in Bipolar Disorder Caretakers

Why do those who don’t have mood disorders have a penchant for making things worse with their comments. We all know the clown who believes that we can drop the thought and be instantly happy! (Some of these go to support groups, unfortunately.) Others blast you for entertaining angry thoughts or believe your depression to be willful. (Even a few psychiatrists believe this is the case.

This list came from a flyer developed by the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance entitld “What Helps and What Hurts”.

What Hurts	What Helps
It’s all in your head.	I know you have a real illness and that’s what causes these thoughts and feelings.
We all go through times like this.	I may not be able to understand exactly how you feel but I care about you and want to help.
You have so much to live for. Why do you want to die?	You are important to me. Your life is important to me.
What do you want me to do? I can’t change your situation?	Tell me what I can do now to help you.
Just snap out of it. Look on the bright side.	You might not believe it now, but the way you’re feeling will change.
You’ll be fine. Stop worrying.	You are not alone in this. I’m here for you.
Here’s my advice….	Talk to me. I’m listening.

A parting thought: we often hear about bipolars who won’t take meds, go to groups, etc. but not enough is said about family members who won’t learn about the disease, learn how to help and to cope, or go to groups. Is this not as serious a problem, especially when lives are on the line?