Support Networks (A Brutally Honest Reality)

I just realised some people reading this might not be other bipolar sufferers looking to understand themselves a little better, but may be the loved ones of someone who is suffering from bipolar, who want to get inside the mind of their loved one to understand what they're thinking and feeling.

Coolbeans.

Alright so when it comes to support networks, I gotta tell you, there is a fine line between friends, family and significant others wanting to listen and help, and them getting so sick of you bitching and whining all the time that they just want nothing more than for you to shut up.

They tell you they want you to always be open and honest about how you're feeling, and to let it all out.
I'll be honest with you angelfaces - They don't.

Yes, it is good to be honest and open. Yes, it is good to share. Yes, if you feel like you are going to hurt yourself or someone else you should most definitely talk.

BUT remember that your friends are not trained therapists. They don't know what to do in this situation. They want to help, but don't know how, and it's not their job to take on the responsibility for your well-being.

HIRE A THERAPIST, COUNCILLOR, PSYCHIATRIST, PSYCHOLOGIST OR SOMEONE ELSE.

Don't want to?

It is their job to listen and help, and they know how to respond in these situations.

Friends don't want to be around someone who can't have fun at all. They don't want to be around someone that constantly puts a damper on a party atmosphere or ruins a social gathering. I have a friend, Riley, who insists he is his own therapist, and proceeds to cry every time he has a beer and it's always up to us to listen to him for hours on end instead of being back inside, laughing with other friends.

Friends want to help, they are there for you, so tell them if you're feeling sad, or talk out some problems with them but be very careful you don't use them as your therapists. It's not fair, and it won't earn you any friends, and I'd just like to point out that Riley is consistently single because no girl wants to date someone who constantly brings them down.

A support network is people that love you and want to help, PLUS a trained professional. There's a healthy balance you need to maintain.
Talk to your friends, family and significant others, but don't expect them to be able to solve your problems, and remember not to use them as a crutch. Admit you need help, and go see someone regularly. It helps.

- M