Information for Family and Friends.


If your spouse or loved one has Bipolar Disorder, then it is both important and helpful for you to understand as much as possible about the disease. By staying informed and understanding Bipolar Disorder, you can serve as a source of support and even help your spouse or loved one get the most from treatment.

Warning Signs of a New Episode

Early signs of a mood episode are different for mania and depression, and they vary from person to person. At the onset of an episode, people may experience slight changes in mood, sleep, energy, self-esteem, sexual interest, concentration, and level of enthusiasm and optimism. These symptoms may become more severe. Some may start dressing differently, or neglect grooming. Learning about their particular symptom pattern is a way for people to be proactive in their own treatment for Bipolar Disorder.

Separating myth from fact

Bipolar Disorder is a biological illness that makes people who have it vulnerable to emotional and physical stresses. It is not the result of a weak or unstable personality, nor is it the “fault” of either the person who has Bipolar Disorder or any of his or her family members.

You can help

Family members and friends can help a person with Bipolar Disorder during a mood episode, by recognizing the warning signs of a new episode, and reminding them to take their medication as prescribed. The involvement of family and friends can be as casual as calling regularly or as involved as taking the person to appointments and helping with activities of daily living.

Here are a few things family members and friends can do:

  • Encourage the person to stick with treatment and regularly see his or her doctor or therapist. You can also encourage him or her to avoid harmful habits, like smoking or using alcohol or illegal street drugs.
  • If the person with Bipolar Disorder is not doing well or having side effects, encourage him or her to talk to a healthcare professional. They should not stop taking their medication without first talking to a healthcare professional.
  • Don't take it personally. Often, if help is rejected during a mood episode, it is a symptom of the episode, not a true feeling.
  • Learn the difference between a good day and a manic episode. People with Bipolar Disorder have good days and bad days like everyone else. With experience and attention, family and friends can learn to spot the signs indicating that a bad day may have turned into a severe mood swing.
  • Learn the warning signs of suicide and take them very seriously. If the person is “winding up” his or her affairs, talking about suicide, or exhibiting increased feelings of despair, seek help immediately. Share responsibility with others. This can reduce the stress that caring for someone with Bipolar Disorder brings and can prevent emotional fatigue or resentment. If the person ever has suicidal thoughts, call their healthcare professional, emergency room, or 911 to get immediate help.
  • When a person is recovering from an episode, don’t expect too much or too little. Let the person recover at his or her own pace. Do things with the person instead of for the person.
  • Plan ahead. Take advantage of stable periods to make arrangements for the future. Discuss when to put plans into action, such as withholding credit cards, restricting bank accounts, hiding car keys, and heading for the hospital.
  • Take advantage of support groups. There are several resources available for families and friends of people with Bipolar Disorder. Find a resource center, an assistance program, or the branch of a national advocacy group near you.

Find support and resources for loved ones and learn more about Bipolar Disorder.
View a list of Bipolar Disorder support and advocacy organizations.