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Episodes of mania or depression can be very distressing for family and friends. A manic episode can exhaust all those who are close to the person. Depression can leave family and friends feeling completely powerless to help.
Helping a Depressed Relative or Friend[/b:52b357fc67]
It is often difficult to know what to say to someone who is very depressed - it may seem that you can??t say anything right because they interpret everything in a very pessimistic way. It can be very difficult to know what they want - this is hardly surprising because often the depressed person does not know themselves what they want. They may be very withdrawn and irritable but at the same time unable to do without your help and support. They may be very worried but unwilling or unable to accept advice. So try to be as patient and understanding as possible.
Practical help may be easier to offer and is very important. Make sure that your relative or friend is able to look after themselves properly. If you find that they are seriously neglecting themselves by not eating or drinking, seek medical help immediately.
If they talk of harming or killing themselves, this should be taken seriously and professional help should be obtained.
It is important that you give yourself space and time to recharge your batteries. Make sure that you are able to spend some time on your own or with trusted friends who will give you the support you need at this time. If your relative or friend has to go into hospital, make sure that you share the visiting with someone else. You will be better able to support your friend or relative if you yourself have had some time to rest.
Helping a Manic Friend or Relative[/b:52b357fc67]
At the start of a manic mood swing, the person will appear to be happy, energetic and outward-going, the ??life and soul of the party??. They will relish being the centre of attention and will enjoy social occasions such as parties or heated discussions. However, these will tend to increase the sufferer??s level of excitement and will tend to make their mood even higher. So, it is a good idea to keep them away from such situations if possible while you try to persuade them to seek help. They will benefit from information about the illness, advice about how to help, and practical support.
If a manic swing has become severe, the person may become hostile, suspicious and verbally or physically explosive. Don??t get into arguments but get professional help immediately. You should keep a contact telephone number and the name of a trusted professional handy for any such emergency. There may be times when it is necessary for the manic person to have a short admission to hospital to protect them from getting into trouble. |
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