Hi, how\u2019s it going? Hope you are doing well.<\/p>\n
In California there is a big debate going on. Should people who are in the welfare system have to \u201cwork\u201d for their welfare? Many people think they should, but a few disagree. I\u2019m not about to get into that debate, but I think it brings up an interesting point.<\/p>\n
How often do we think about the fact that people who have bipolar disorder have to work for their recovery? Sometimes this is as literal as it sounds. That is to say, for some people a major part of their recovery is to have a job and to do their best at it. For others, this takes on a more symbolic meaning, referring more to the fact that recovery doesn\u2019t come easily, and that you have to strive for it.<\/p>\n
So what are some of the ways that many people have to work towards their recovery? And what are the ways that we, their supporters, can help them out? There are many ways that people who have bipolar disorder need to work towards their recovery. Most of them should be outlined in their treatment plan.<\/p>\n
Some examples are taking their medication as prescribed, keeping a routine, and going to therapy. It can also include things like meditation, exercising, and anger management techniques. Or even paying attention to their overall health, participating in a hobby, and socializing.<\/p>\n
It always needs to include learning new coping skills and practicing them. It always needs to include symptom management and prevention. And it always needs to include talking over things with their recovery team.<\/p>\n
Sometimes all of this can seem overwhelming for a person who is already dealing with a mental disorder. That is where we, the supporters, come into play. We can encourage them along, and \u201chold their hand\u201d through it, so to speak.<\/p>\n
We can help them monitor their symptoms and remind them of the things they need to be doing. We can handle a crisis situation by getting outside help for them. We can, ultimately, sit back and let them take charge of their recovery.<\/p>\n
This last part may seem harsh at times, but sometimes it is exactly what they need. That depends on the time, though, and you are the best person to determine which time is which.<\/p>\n
Just keep in mind that they are working towards something that is not just challenging, but is also against their very nature. Try to have some compassion on them for this, but at the same time do not over- sympathize with them to the point that you take over and keep them from recovering.<\/p>\n
A healthy balance is needed. Remember that you also have to work towards what you want in your life, including the goal of being the best supporter you can be. Now, the best supporter is one that has good balance both in the way that they handle their loved one and in their own life.<\/p>\n
This is not an easy goal to meet, but it, like recovery from bipolar disorder, is a goal worth working towards. Both you and your loved one need to set your eyes on the goal but your feet on the one step at a time. It will pay off in the end.<\/p>\n
What are your thoughts on all this?<\/p>\n
Well, I have to go!<\/p>\n
Your Friend,<\/p>\n
Dave<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Hi, how\u2019s it going? Hope you are doing well.<\/p>\n
In California there is a big debate going on. Should people who are in the welfare system have to \u201cwork\u201d for their welfare? Many people think they should, but a few disagree. I\u2019m not about to get into that debate, but I think it brings up an interesting point.<\/p>\n
How often do we think about the fact that people who have bipolar disorder have to work for their recovery?<\/p>\n