When Someone Close to You
Has a Mental Illness
...suggestions for coping more effectively

Supporting Someone with Bipolar - For Family and Friends

A friend of a person experiencing a mental illness may encounter common difficulties. Although situations differ, there are basic suggestions to help to facilitate a smoother adjustment.

• Understand that behavior may change from day to day.
• Learn as much as you can about the illness from mental health professionals.
• Encourage the person to keep appointments with mental health professionals and to take medications as prescribed. This will help in stabilizing the illness.
• Encourage the person to avoid alcohol and "street" drugs. These substances may interfere with the effectiveness of medications.
• Be open and direct with the person when talking about the illness or treatment. Don't keep secrets.
• Be a good listener. Open communication is good for everyone.
• Do not be frightened by or hide the fact that someone you care for is mentally ill.
• Be clear and firm that lying and violence are not acceptable ways to get needs met.
• Remember that improvement takes time and may not be easy to see on a day-to-day basis.
• Treat the person as an adult.
• Avoid words like "never" and "always" when the person repeats past mistakes. Be positive.
• Realize that criticism usually makes things more difficult
• Remember that everyone makes mistakes.
• Expect adult behavior and encourage self-reliance.
• Point out with pleasure the small tings that the person does well.
• Say clearly what you want from the person. Remember to be understanding.
• Suggest to the person that personal appearance is important. Offer help if necessary.
• Keep your promises so the person knows you can be counted on.
• Take care of yourself. Eat, sleep, exercise and play. Consider joining a support group.
• Relax and do your best. Avoid worrying that what you do will make the person worse.

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