When family members are accompanying patients with bipolar affective disorder, these three points are very important, and the last one is very heartwarming!
What is bipolar affective disorder? Bipolar affective disorder is when the patient switches between “depressive and manic symptoms.”
The symptoms or manifestations of bipolar affective disorder patients are often unpredictable, to the extent that they are referred to as erratic tigers. Indeed, those afflicted with this condition, both patients and family members, feel extreme anguish!
As the person involved, the patient does not want to be this way either. But when the manic emotions arise and cannot be controlled when triggered, attempting to control through conscious effort is futile.
This leads to scenes like:
1. Rage, cursing, the harsher the words, the more they are said, the more satisfying it feels, almost wishing for someone’s demise
2. Throwing things, in a wild frenzy like a mad lion
3. Self-harm, harming oneself, at that moment, there is no pain because emotions are uncontrollable, numbing one’s rationality and sensation nerves; however, inner conflicts persist.
These are the typical symptoms of a manic episode, also known as pathological manic symptoms. Yet, this is just one facet of mania; there is a gentle and harmonious side where the patient suddenly becomes harmonious. However, this harmoniousness gives an odd feeling, such as:
1. Excessive spending, spending recklessly (irrational spending)
2. Easily excitable, exaggerating actions, making promises easily, whether achievable or not
3. Feeling omnipotent, looking down on others, overestimating oneself
4. Prior feelings of depression, gloom, and physical symptoms are no longer prominent; the individual becomes especially excitable, talkative, not tired even without sleep, with increased activity levels.
These are the gentle aspects of mania, which often mislead patients or family members, leading them to believe that the patient’s condition has suddenly improved and thus stopping medication abruptly, interrupting the recovery process, which poses unimaginable hindrances and consequences.
Therefore, when facing mild mania or depression, whether as the individual or family member, it is crucial to be observant, with the core being: “Patients and family members need to compare the patient’s character with the manifestation of their mild mania or depression. What does this mean? It means that when the patient exhibits mild mania or depression, do their actions and speech align with their character? If not, caution is needed; treatment should not be discontinued abruptly. Monitoring and treatment continuation should be a priority with timely follow-up visits when necessary.”
For family members accompanying a loved one suffering from “bipolar affective disorder,” patience is paramount. Avoid confrontation, as dealing with someone with bipolar disorder is akin to being with a tiger, a small misstep leading to rage, object throwing, or verbal abuse beyond control, an overwhelming situation for family members.
Therefore, family members must strive to achieve the following three points, especially the last one, which is highly practical!
1. Patience is crucial!
Family members need to be cautious and avoid triggering the patient, understanding that those with bipolar disorder can be unpredictable and easily provoked. The key lies in being patient, otherwise, every day will feel like a battlefield.
Avoid provoking them; rather, try to accommodate their wishes. By providing them with a sense of security and trust, their hearts will gradually soften.
2. Occasionally, cater to their needs!
At times, it is necessary to cater to their needs, not out of indulgence but as a means of respecting and understanding the patient’s emotional state. When they are in good spirits, engage with them on a personal level to touch their emotions, making it a routine aspect of caregiving.
Family members should placate them to ease their emotions, offering unconditional love.
If needed, offer appropriate apologies.
Some may question, why should patients be catered to? Why should I serve them in such a manner?
It’s not about demeaning yourself but truly understanding the patient’s pain. They don’t think or want this way, requiring family members to patiently care for them and guide them back to the path of a normal life, a fundamental essence of enduring hardships together.
When facing outbursts from patients, family members should tactfully step aside and refrain from speaking excessively! Restrain yourself!
Consider replacing heavy objects and small stools with plush toys in the house!
This minimizes potential damages. Family members should gradually rearrange the belongings in the house, especially near where the patient frequents, minimizing clutter and creating more space. Soft furnishings and decorations can be used instead of fragile items to infuse a cozy feeling and prevent any losses even in the event of objects being thrown.
Additionally, it is important to note:
In treating various mental disorders, including depression, bipolar affective disorder, or schizophrenia, one must revere science, trust medical professionals, and respect authorities. Avoid harboring a gambler’s mentality or commoner’s mindset or being self-righteous. Such attitudes may lead to doubting doctors, resisting medication, or self-administration (altering dosages, etc.).
While questioning is your right, place your trust in authoritative figures in medical treatment as following a scientific approach and cooperation with medical professionals is the correct stance.
Compliance, self-rescue, learning, exercise, and mental cultivation are the responsible behaviors that contribute to effective treatment. Many family members or patients, when faced with such mental illnesses, end up spending unnecessary funds or abandoning ongoing treatments due to a lack of composure or easily believing unreliable sources. This behavior is unwise!
Remember, “In a desperate situation, people may resort to desperate measures!” Ultimately, they return to square one, resuming the initial treatment plan.
Thus, overcoming these challenges involves no shortcuts; it requires adherence to medical advice, obedience, proactive self-improvement, learning, physical exercise, and spiritual cultivation. Find a method that suits you for self-rescue, and do not take health matters lightly!
Health is no joking matter and certainly not something to gamble with!
