Support Methods For BP Friend

iVillage Member
Registered: 04-12-2007
Support Methods For BP Friend
2
Thu, 04-12-2007 - 11:30am

Cliff's Notes version: My ex and I broke up because he'd simply disappear without explanation for several months at a time. We're still friends, but our closeness has been close on and off since, when he suddenly apologizes and races back into my life for a few weeks at a time, only to disappear again. He's since been diagnosed as having bipolar disorder type II.

I feel like I never knew him at all now and am not sure how to support him on this immense life transition. I feel so helpless and I'm pretty sure he feels the same, especially since he's on the other side of the country. What should I know and what can I do? Any advice would be amazing right now.

iVillage Member
Registered: 09-01-2004
Thu, 04-12-2007 - 1:20pm

Thank you for being willing to support him--having friends/family that support you can make a BIG difference to a BP person.

iVillage Member
Registered: 08-11-2006
Mon, 04-16-2007 - 12:38pm

I have been rather MIA lately, but still here and to the OP, tell your friend that just being able to talk to people is a big help. I have come to realize just HOW much my life was/has/is affected by this disorder. Things I just considered as "normal" I am now finding out are related to the bp. I have been eobp (Early onset) since 7 yo which is why I just thought so much of the disorder is normal.

Good luck and yes a true friend is ALWAYS a plus with this disorder. I have a few and they understand my disappearing for awhile and then showing up and all the other stuff that goes with bp and just accept it as me being me.

tk

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