You are not alone! Many people with bipolar disorder can’t see they are ill and many know they have the illness, but stubbornly refuse help!
Here are three tips to ease your loved one into future treatment:
1. If the person refuses to say the words bipolar disorder, don’t try to force the issue…yet. Instead, talk about feeling good, feeling down, feeling upset or feeling angry.
2. Focus on sleep. Many people with untreated mood disorders are open to getting help for sleep. Talk about sleep studies, small doses of melatonin four hours before midnight and talking to a professional to get help for sleeping issues.
3. If it feels right, talk about anxiety. I’ve learned through working with parents and partners that people who refuse to use the words bipolar disorder will often have an open discussion about anxiety, especially men.
There is always hope. People change and those who can’t see they are ill or who simply refuse help today can get better. I see it in my work all of the time!
Julie
