Bipolar Disorder Support

The right support system may help you manage bipolar disorder symptoms, including both depression and mania. Sharing what you’ve learned about your condition may help family and friends understand it. There are many organizations that can offer help to you and your family.

If You Have Bipolar Disorder, You Are Not Alone

the mania and the lows of depression that sufferers understand

In addition to working with your doctor, establishing the right support system can be a good way to help you manage your bipolar disorder symptoms—during both depressive and manic episodes. Your support circle may include family members, friends, or members of the mental health community, including support groups. In order to let people help you, they will need to know as much as they can about how you are feeling and what specific things they can do to help you from day to day.

Sharing what you’ve learned about bipolar disorder with others may give them a better understanding of your treatment plan and overall goals. You can start by having them read the section of this Web site written for them, What Family & Friends Should Know.

There are other resources available on the Web designed to help you, your family, and your friends learn more about living with bipolar disorder. Check our listing of mental health resources, including organizations and groups that can offer additional information and support to you and your personal support circle.

Find a support group in your area at Connections at the National Alliance on Mental Illness,  a recovery support group for adults living with mental illness that is affiliated with the National Alliance on Mental Illness and is expanding to communities throughout the US.

Or try the support group locator at the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) Web site. Help your family help you by giving them the information they need.