How can I take care of myself?
Taking care of someone with bipolar disorder can be extremely stressful. In order to best help your loved one, you need to be able to take care of yourself as well.
Here are ways to help relieve the emotional strains of caregiving:
Share the responsibility
If you have the option, share caregiving responsibility with other family members. This can help prevent you from "burning out" or feeling resentful. Everyone in your family should be aware of the symptoms of bipolar episodes and the signs of increased risk of suicide. Set specific tasks for other family members, such as picking up prescriptions or helping to manage the household and finances.
Find support groups
More than 5.7 million Americans have bipolar disorder, so you are not alone in caring for an individual with the illness. Many bipolar disorder support groups for caregivers meet locally and online. Support groups not only help you learn about the disorder and strategies for preventing and managing bipolar disorder symptoms, they also provide support for you during difficult times.
- Learn more about support groups
Take time for yourself
Schedule time for rejuvenation so the stress of caregiving doesn't lead to mental and physical exhaustion. Focus on what gives you pleasure: a walk outdoors, reading or listening to music, meeting a friend.
Consider mental health therapy for yourself
Family and social rhythms therapy can be useful to your loved one, and you probably will be included in the sessions. But you also may benefit from your own therapist — one who will focus on the stresses created by your caregiving role and your feelings about your loved one's illness.
![[ ]](/images/calloutlg_top.gif){kind=small}
Use the Caregiver Diary to help keep track of conversations you have on behalf of your loved one, plus medications and doctor appointments.
![[ ]](/images/calloutlg_bot.gif){kind=small}
