Manic-depressive mood swings are symptoms of bipolar disorder, a condition that affects a person psychologically. The mood swings people experience are extreme highs and lows; they may act completely irrational and aggressive and then begin to have suicidal thoughts. These mood swings can last for extended periods of time, weeks or months, and have a major impact on their relationships and everyday life. It does not impact just them, though; it has a tremendous emotional impact on their loved ones as well, which makes it important for them to learn deal with these mood swings as successfully as possible.
Instructions
1. Learn as much as you can about bipolar disorder to get better insight into the disorder and why the mood swings occur (see Resources). A good book to read is "We Heard the Angels of Madness" by Diane and Lisa Berger. It's written by a mother and daughter and is their personal account of their loved one as he struggled with bipolar. It is a great help when learning about the signs of the disorder as well as handle the problems as they arise. The more you know, the better prepared you will be to handle the situations when they arise.
2. Encourage medical treatment. Those suffering from manic-depressive mood swings may not realize they need medical treatment. Though you cannot force them to seek it, you can encourage them to receive the help they need. Approaching them tactfully may make it easier, eventually leading them to the medications they need to help control the mood swings they experience. This will benefit you in the long run as well.
3. Show them you understand. It is vital to display understanding and compassion for your friend or family member as they experience their highs and lows; these are often what push people away from them. Instead, it's important to be there when they need someone to talk to and reassure them that you will help them through their treatment. Though it can be difficult, always remind yourself that this is not a condition they cannot control and neither are their actions.
4. Prepare yourself. Even with treatment, this is not a condition that will get better overnight. It is a lifelong process that will have setbacks along with victories. If you mentally prepare yourself for all of these things, you will be better able to deal with the mood swings when they arise.
5. Find a support group (see Resources). There are a number of support groups for family and friends of those who suffer from bipolar disorder. Not only will you have an outlet for your own emotions, you will connect with others who are experiencing the same things you are. You may also get ideas from others in your support group that will help you better deal with the mood swings as they occur.
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