Mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder and unipolar depression affect not only the individuals diagnosed but also their relatives and friends. Loved ones often face the challenge of understanding the behavior of the affected person, offering support, and maintaining their own boundaries. This guide aims to help relatives develop a better understanding of these conditions and provide guidance on how to manage them effectively.
🧠 What is Unipolar Depression?
Unipolar depression is a mental illness characterized by persistent low mood, loss of interest, lack of motivation, and feelings of hopelessness. It can last for weeks, months, or even years.
Typical Symptoms:
✔ Persistent sadness, hopelessness
✔ Loss of interest, social withdrawal
✔ Increased fatigue, sleep disturbances
✔ Concentration problems, excessive worrying
✔ Suicidal thoughts (in severe cases)
Important for Relatives to Know:
📌 Depression is not a weakness of character but a serious illness.
📌 Sufferers often cannot simply think positively or „pull themselves together.“
📌 Support and understanding are crucial – but relatives alone cannot provide a cure.
🌀 What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme mood swings that fluctuate between manic, hypomanic, and depressive episodes.
🔺 The Manic Phase
✔ Excessive euphoria, increased drive
✔ Reduced need for sleep while maintaining high energy
✔ Risky behavior, such as excessive spending, excessive talking, overconfidence
✔ Irritability, aggression
🔻 The Depressive Phase
✔ Deep sadness, lack of motivation
✔ Social withdrawal
✔ Concentration and sleep problems
✔ Suicidal thoughts
Important for Relatives to Know:
📌 During mania, people often lack insight into their illness – they do not recognize that their behavior is problematic.
📌 During depression, many feel helpless and worthless – even encouragement does not always help immediately.
📌 Dealing with the disorder requires patience, clarity, and professional support if needed.
👥 How to Support – A Guide for Relatives
1. Develop Knowledge & Understanding
💡 The more you know about the illness, the better you can provide support. Educate yourself about symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
✔ Those affected are not „lazy“ or „moody“ – their emotions are often beyond their control.
✔ Medication can help, but finding the right dosage takes time.
✔ Therapy is essential – support is important, but relatives cannot take full responsibility for recovery.
2. Communication: Listening Instead of Giving Advice
🗣 Often, those affected do not need solutions, but understanding.
More Helpful:
✔ „I’m here for you. How can I help?“
✔ „I notice that you’re not feeling well – would you like to talk?“
Less Helpful:
❌ „Pull yourself together!“
❌ „Just think positively!“
3. Set Boundaries & Protect Yourself
⚠ Relatives must also respect their own limits.
✔ Offer support, but do not take on the entire responsibility.
✔ If the situation overwhelms you, seek support for yourself (e.g., self-help groups).
✔ In acute emergencies (e.g., suicidal risk), seek professional help.
4. Create a Crisis Plan
📌 If the condition worsens, a crisis plan should be in place:
✔ What warning signs indicate a crisis?
✔ What emergency numbers are available (e.g., psychiatric emergency services)?
✔ What measures are helpful for the affected person in an emergency?
💙 Conclusion: Relatives Play an Important, but Not Solely Responsible, Role
✔ Unipolar and bipolar disorders are treatable but require time.
✔ Empathy, clear communication, and realistic expectations are crucial.
✔ Relatives can support – but professional help is essential.
📌 Seeking help is not a sign of weakness – neither for those affected nor for their relatives. A supportive environment can make a big difference, but no one should bear full responsibility alone. 💙