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It is important to remember that supporters of those who have Bipolar Disorder need supporting too. Bipolar Disorder causes many changes in the dynamics of a family.  It can get very hard to remember to take care of your own needs, and at that point you are well working towards a Co-dependant relationship with the one who is ill.  

I want to add my personal thanks for all of you who love us and endure our bipolar behavior.  I am blessed with family and friends who just seem to understand my little idiosyncrasies because we took on this illness together with me hand in hand.  Pat yourselves on the back for taking the time to try to find out what you can do for your loved one as well as yourself.  I appreciate you, you make this world a better place. 

Depending on the nature of the individual's bipolar disorder, the family will be affected in many ways.  Where mood swings are mild, the family will experience many forms of distress but, over time, may adapt well enough to the demands of the illness.  If episodes are more severe, the family may need to work though extreme difficulties in several areas.

the emotional effects of the illness
the social effects
the changes within family members
the changes within the family structure
expectations
ways of reducing stress
coping with the threat of suicide
ways of establishing good communication lines with family members and with outside resources

Emotional Effects Social Effects Changes Family Structure
Expectations Stress Suicide Threats Communication

On Being Bipolar © 2000 - 2005
All information on this site is Copyright of Lizy Gipson 2000 - 2005
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