1. Extra Help
Though you may be on a steady emotional path with the use of medications for bipolar disorder, it's nice to have people to talk to who are experiencing the same kinds of issues you deal with everyday. While other people without the disease can be supportive and helpful, no one knows what you go through except others in the same boat. The extra help you get from a support group offers an outlet where you can talk freely about your experience and your feelings. You also may find additional resources, solutions and friends in the group.
2. Find a Bipolar Disorder Support Group
If your doctor cannot refer you to a bipolar disorder support group, then go online to find one near you. Most support group meetings are held in local hospitals and medical practices, while others may meet in peoples' homes or offices, or in church basements with other support groups. Organizations such as the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance and the National Alliance on Mental Illness arrange and provide information about the groups. If you cannot find one online, try calling a local chapter.
3. Volunteers run it
Bipolar disorder support groups are not group therapy sessions. They do not replace therapy with your psychiatrist or other medical professional. Some groups may be led by therapists who guide the discussion and make sure that participants stay on track, but most groups are run by volunteers who have found relief from their problems by talking and want to help others.
4. Go Alone to Meetings
If you are not able to provide your own transportation to the meetings or are under close supervision for any reason, then ask your caretaker to wait in the hall or outside while you attend your support group. It is difficult enough to speak up about personal feelings in a group. You don't want to have to censor your speech at this time. Support groups let you speak freely without incriminating anyone.
5. Path to Wellness
Bipolar disorder may or may not be a problem that you will ever recover from fully. However, the journey to getting better can be easier with the empathy, education and laughter you can receive from a group of friends in a supportive environment. A support group is a way to learn new skills and practice old ones. Communication with like-minded individuals can lead to better self-acceptance. Once you see how others handle their disorder, you can use some of the same tools to deal with your own development.
