Tips on Bi-Polar Disorder

Weathering the Storm - (Extracts from the book: BDOTI FIL-MALTEMP. Edited by Nora Macelli and Connie Magro. Published by the Mental Health Association and the St Jeanne Antide Foundation, 2015.) Translated by JEAN KILLICK
 
Tips on BI-POLAR DISORDER
 
Bi-Polar Disorder affects not just the individual but all those around them.  Very often, family members suffer as much as the patient.  Relatives tend to suffer from extreme stress and isolation as much of their time is dedicated to the sick relative.
 
What can family members do?
  1. Read, ask and learn more about the condition.
  2. Find out what services are available in your area and generally.
  3. Participate in a support group for family members of mentally ill patients.  These groups will provide support that you will need and will help you realize that you are not alone in this difficult situation. The Mental Health Association (Malta), for example, runs an annual course for family caregivers. Many caregivers attend this course more than once.
  4. Although it may not be easy, it is important to maintain good relations with the sick relative, even when they do not appreciate your support or the sacrifices that you are making.
  5. Keep in regular contact with the patient’s psychiatrist and keep track of appointments.
  6. Teach the patient to be as independent as possible.
  7. Ensure that your relative is taking correct medication.  If not, speak to the psychiatrist and check whether it is necessary to register with the MMDNA, so that a nurse could visit the patient at home to give him or her the medication.
  8. Keep handy a list of important telephone numbers so that you can reach them easily in an emergency.
  9. Keep communication open with the patient.
  10. When you are caring for a family member with this condition, it is important that:
  11. You get enough sleep so that your mind and body are rested and you will not collapse due to tiredness, anxiety and stress.
  12. Make time for some form of exercise and keep your own appointments and commitments.
  13. Make sure you have a balanced diet and eat nourishing food.
  14. Some daily “me” time is necessary – you should not feel guilty for doing this.
  15. Try to understand the negative emotions that can arise when you are caring for the patient. If you want to rid yourself of negative emotions, make an appointment for yourself with the Emotional Freedom Service of the Foundation.
  16. Acknowledge the positive things in your life, although these may be small.
  17. Keep a positive attitude – humour should be an important part of your life.
  18. Recognise priorities in your life – what is most important?
 
Taking care of a mentally ill person is no easy task and can make us face difficult challenges.  However, a saying by Winston Churchill bears repeating:  “When you are going through hell, keep on going.  Never never never give up.”