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How to Support a Loved One with Bipolar Disorder Supporting a loved one with bipolar disorder can be incredibly challenging, but it also offers an opportunity to make a profound difference in their life. It’s an emotional experience that can include moments of intense highs and lows – which can take a toll on everyone. By educating yourself about the condition, you can become a better ally to your friend or family member throughout their journey. Ways to show your support include offering understanding, compassion, and action, which we’ll dive into below. {MiniWidget:Anxiety} Educating yourself on bipolar disorder Understanding the condition is the first step in preparing to support someone with bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition characterized by extreme fluctuations in mood that come in episodes, which can have an outsized impact on a person's daily activities, energy levels, thought process, and overall well-being. What is bipolar disorder? Individuals with bipolar disorder experience intense emotional shifts that can continue for several days, weeks, or even months. Unlike your typical mood swings, those with bipolar disorder often find their swings greatly impair varying aspects of their everyday life.  It’s important to know that bipolar disorder is a medical condition for which continuing care and professional support is recommended by qualified medical professionals. Having bipolar disorder is not a choice, but taking steps to best manage it for your lifestyle is. Types of bipolar disorder With advancements in research, it’s now known that bipolar disorder exists in different forms – some overlapping challenges and each coming with their own set of unique difficulties. Some examples are listed below: Bipolar I disorder: A severe condition characterized by at least one episode of mania that may be extreme and dangerous. Patients may or may not also experience depression. Bipolar II disorder: A severe condition that includes depressive episodes and at least one period of hypomania. Cyclothymic disorder. A milder subtype of bipolar disorder that is usually less severe than bipolar l and bipolar ll. Mood episodes do not meet the full criteria for bipolar I, bipolar II, or major depressive disorders. Cyclothymic disorder may later develop into bipolar I or bipolar II.  Understanding the specific type of bipolar disorder your loved one has can help you tailor your support accordingly. As always, consulting qualified medical professionals is a strong start to set a solid path for supportive engagement.  Recognizing symptoms and triggers Learning the triggers and signs of mania and depression may help you support someone with bipolar disorder. People suffering from bipolar conditions may not even realize they're experiencing a mood shift, or they may feel too overwhelmed to seek help. Symptoms of mania During a manic episode, your loved one may seem unusually happy, energetic, or even irritable. Be on the lookout for: Racing thoughts Exaggerated self-confidence or grandiosity Reduced need for sleep Impulsive or risky behaviors, like excessive spending or dangerous decisions, without regard to considering or realizing possible negative consequences or impacts Rapid speech, such as speaking so quickly they are difficult to follow While mania can sometimes feel euphoric, it can also lead to poor judgment, strained relationships, and potentially harmful situations. Symptoms of depression On the other side of the spectrum, depressive episodes can be equally debilitating. Watch for: Persistent sadness or hopelessness Fatigue and lack of energy Changes in appetite or sleep patterns Difficulty concentrating Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed Thoughts of suicide or self-harm During a depressive phase, your loved one may withdraw, stop engaging with the world, and isolate themselves. Recognizing these patterns can help you reach out and provide support when they may not have the strength to ask for it themselves. Common triggers Triggers can vary from person to person. Some common ones include: Stress: Significant life changes, work pressures, or personal conflicts can intensify symptoms. Sleep disruption: Irregular sleep patterns can signal both manic and depressive episodes. Substance use: Drugs and alcohol may negatively interact with medications and worsen symptoms. Seasonal changes: Some individuals with bipolar disorder experience more mood episodes during specific times of the year, like winter or spring. When you understand these triggers, you can intervene and offer assistance in the hopes of preventing escalation. Ask how you can support them Since individuals with bipolar disorder may experience its effects differently, one of the things you can do to help a loved one is simply asking them how they'd like to be supported. Do they prefer you check in regularly? Do they want space when they're feeling overwhelmed? Get the conversation going so you can understand how you can best be there for them. Let them know when you notice concerning symptoms Sometimes during a manic or depressive episode, a person might not be fully aware of their own symptoms. Gently pointing out when you've noticed a change in their behavior can support awareness and action. Take care to approach them with empathy and without judgment. A simple "I've noticed you seem more stressed than usual – do you want to talk about it?" can go a long way. Encourage them to stay in treatment Bipolar disorder often requires ongoing treatment, including medication and therapy. Sometimes people with the condition have varying views about treatment, so be prepared for the possibility. The medications aren't working: Encourage them to talk to their doctor rather than stopping treatment abruptly. They don't like the side effects: Suggest they talk to their doctor about alternative options. They forget to take their medications: Offer to set up reminders or help them create a routine to ensure they take their medication consistently. They don't think they need treatment: Gently remind them of previous episodes and how treatment has helped them maintain stability. Have a crisis plan prepared Bipolar disorder can sometimes lead to crises, such as suicidal thoughts or actions. Be ready with a crisis plan that can guide you during an emergency. This plan might include: Contact information for doctors and therapists Emergency contact numbers Steps to take during an episode, like removing access to harmful objects or substances Instructions for when to seek professional help or hospitalization Take care of yourself Be careful not to let your support for your loved one negatively impact your own mental health. It's good to be there for them, but important to also look out for yourself. There are ways to prioritize your mental health which include: Talk therapy Talking to a therapist may be helpful for you. Therapy can give you tools to manage stress and emotional exhaustion. Try a support group You're not alone in supporting a loved one with bipolar disorder. Seek out others going through the same thing and connect with them either in person or online. They may be able to share insights on how to take care of yourself, or give you the encouragement to keep going. Prioritize self-care Decide what you need to feel relaxed and recharged. For some it could mean taking a beach day, and for others, unwinding by playing video games. These acts of self-care could keep you from feeling burnt out. Know your limits There is only so much you can do. Recognize when you need to step back and take a break. Consider whether it's time for you to see a therapist for help in getting to a better place. Accept your loved one's limits Your loved one may have limitations, especially during an episode. Being patient and showing compassion may be good for your relationship, but it may not be enough. It’s important to understand and accept their limits just as you work to understand and accept your own. Start your wellness journey with Cerebral Consider joining Cerebral to connect with a compassionate, credentialed therapist who can provide the support you deserve. We’re here to help you create a personalized treatment plan and provide the tools and care needed to prioritize your mental health while continuing to be there for your friend or loved one.  Image by Helena Lopes on Pexels.

Relationship Anxiety: Understand the Signs and Ways to Cope Relationships have the potential to bring immense joy, yet for many individuals, they can also become a significant source of anxiety. If you find yourself worrying about your partner’s feelings or constantly seeking reassurance, you might be experiencing relationship anxiety.  This type of anxiety often stems from past experiences or personal insecurities, which may have led you to have concerns about trust and commitment. The good news is that by identifying the signs, implementing strategies, and exploring Couples Therapy, you could create a more balanced and fulfilling relationship.  In this article, we’ll explore the signs that could suggest you’re experiencing relationship anxiety. Additionally, we’re sharing six practical tips to help you effectively manage and overcome it. {MiniWidget:Anxiety} Understanding the signs of relationship anxiety Relationship anxiety isn’t a formally recognized anxiety disorder. Although there isn’t a common consensus on its definition in the scientific community, it generally refers to when people have intense fears or worries about their relationships, especially their primary (intimate) relationship. It’s normal to feel some anxiety in a relationship, especially in the early stages or when trust has been shaken, such as dealing with infidelity. But if you’re feeling anxious on a regular basis, even when your relationship isn’t in crisis, then it could be a sign of relationship anxiety. Here are 11 signs of relationship anxiety: 1. You need constant reassurance You seek constant reassurance from your partner about their feelings and commitment. This need could stem from insecurities or past experiences that lead you to doubt the stability of your relationship. 2. You overthink interactions You find yourself overanalyzing every conversation and interaction you have with your partner. You replay what was said or done and worry about how they perceived your actions, which makes you feel even more stressed and confused. 3. You fear abandonment You experience a pervasive fear of being abandoned or left alone, and it significantly impacts your relationship. This fear may cause you to cling to your partner or act in ways that push them away. 4. You have difficulty trusting You find it challenging to trust your partner, even if they’ve done nothing to betray your trust. You often find yourself questioning their words or actions. This lack of trust can lead to feelings of suspicion and paranoia, and put a heavy strain on the relationship. 5. You are preoccupied with the relationship You may feel an overwhelming focus on your relationship, prioritizing it above your own needs and interests. This preoccupation can lead to obsessive thoughts and feelings that make it difficult to maintain a healthy balance in your life. 6. You experience jealousy and insecurity You frequently feel jealous or insecure about your partner’s interactions with others. These feelings often stem from a lack of self-confidence or a fear of losing your partner to someone you perceive as “better.” This insecurity might cause you to accuse your partner of betraying you even when they haven’t. 7. You doubt your partner’s feelings You frequently find yourself doubting your partner’s feelings toward you. This uncertainty can stem from past experiences or insecurities, but it could also be a sign of underlying self-esteem issues. Regardless of the reason, it can cause you to question their love or commitment. 8. You avoid conflict You tend to avoid addressing conflicts or difficult conversations for fear of upsetting your partner. This avoidance can lead to unresolved issues and resentment, which can ultimately harm the relationship over time. You might even experience self-silencing, which is when you suppress your inner voice and needs just to please your partner and avoid conflict. 9. You have intense emotional reactions You may experience intense emotional reactions to perceived slights or misunderstandings. These reactions can include anger, sadness, or frustration. They may be hard to understand from your partner’s point-of-view when they don’t understand the inner struggle that may be happening for you. 10. You notice physical symptoms of stress You might experience physical manifestations of stress, such as a racing heart, sweating, or stomach issues, especially during interactions with your partner or when you think about relationship challenges. 11. You seek control You may feel compelled to control various aspects of your relationship in an effort to calm your fears. This desire for control can manifest in behaviors like monitoring your partner’s activities or making excessive demands, which can create tension and strain. Relationship anxiety vs. Relationship OCD For some people, relationship anxiety could be so severe and disruptive that it could be considered a form of obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD.  OCD is a mental health condition that causes two key symptoms: obsessions and compulsions.  Obsessions are intrusive and unwanted thoughts or urges that unrelentingly stick in the person’s mind. They cause intense feelings of fear, disgust, or shame. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors that the person performs to try to keep themselves safe or reduce anxiety.  These symptoms make OCD different from standard anxiety. OCD obsessions and compulsions can revolve around any topic. Some people have obsessions about their relationship. People with relationship OCD have intrusive thoughts about the relationship or their partner that go beyond typical relationship anxiety. For example, they may second-guess their own feelings for their partner and worry that they aren’t actually in love. They might compulsively check their own feelings of attraction. It’s important to differentiate whether you have OCD or anxiety, because the treatments that are used in each condition are very different.  How to cope with relationship anxiety Here are some tips that may help you reduce relationship anxiety: 1. Acknowledge your feelings Start by recognizing that relationship anxiety is something you're dealing with. Identifying this emotional experience helps you confront it in a healthy way. It’s important to reflect on whether your worries come from past experiences, personal insecurities, or real issues in the relationship. Don’t push the feelings away; simply notice them.  2. Focus on open communication Talking openly with your partner about your feelings can help you gain reassurance and reduce misunderstandings. Expressing your concerns calmly without blame encourages trust and strengthens emotional connection, which can ease your anxiety. Avoid constant reassurance-seeking, but talk to your partner about how you’re feeling. 3. Practice self-care and mindfulness Taking care of your mental and physical health through activities like meditation, exercise, or journaling can help lower overall anxiety levels. Focusing on your well-being helps you feel more secure and grounded, which can go a long way in reducing the intensity of anxious thoughts about your relationship. 4. Challenge negative thoughts Anxiety can make you prone to overthinking or expecting the worst in your relationship. Learn to identify and question these thoughts by replacing them with more balanced, realistic perspectives. This is a technique based in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Focusing on making this mental shift can ease the pressure and stress you feel. 5. Set boundaries to prevent over-dependence It can be easy to get lost in relationships, especially when you live with relationship anxiety. Establish healthy boundaries with your partner to maintain a sense of individual identity. By giving each other space to grow separately, you build trust and reduce the anxiety that comes from being overly dependent on the relationship. 6. Learn about relationship anxiety Gaining knowledge about relationship anxiety can help you manage it. A study found that even a single session focused on teaching couples about unhelpful behaviors like constant reassurance-seeking and self-silencing made a big difference in reducing these behaviors. By learning more about these patterns and how to address them, you can feel more empowered and better equipped to navigate your relationship with less anxiety. Get professional support with Cerebral Some individuals may be able to manage relationship anxiety on their own, but if these worries have affected your relationships either currently or in the past, it may be a good idea to explore your symptoms and possible treatment. A therapist can also help you identify what’s triggering your relationship anxiety and learn new skills to manage it. In addition, if you’re experiencing relationship anxiety with your partner, then Couples Therapy could be a great option for you. A couples therapist can provide a safe place and third-party perspective on how to improve your relationship dynamics. Get started with Cerebral today and take the first step toward getting the support you deserve. Image by Anna Shvets on Pexels.

5 Things to Look for in a Therapist Finding the right therapist is a personal and important step on your mental health journey. A therapist can provide the support, guidance, and tools you need to work through challenges and make meaningful progress. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start or what factors to prioritize.  In this blog, we’ll explore five key factors to consider when looking for a therapist, helping you make a confident and informed choice that aligns with your unique needs and goals. Let’s dive in! {MiniWidget:Anxiety} 1. Accessibility When searching for a therapist, one of the key considerations is their accessibility. While affordability is an important aspect, there are several other factors to take into account. Let's explore them in more detail: Online vs. In-Person Therapy In-person therapy allows you to meet your therapist in an office setting, which many individuals enjoy. However, factors such as location and scheduling can sometimes make attending in-person sessions less convenient. Online therapy typically offers greater accessibility, as it enables you to attend sessions from the comfort of your home, eliminating the need for travel and accommodating a wider range of schedules. Flexibility Especially if you work traditional hours, it may be desirable to look for a therapist who is able to see you in the evenings or on the weekends.  With Cerebral, you can view therapists’ availability before booking and confirming a session online. Learn more here. Affordability For many, a major barrier to getting therapy is cost. On average, therapy sessions cost between $100 to $300 per session. And although getting the mental health care you deserve is important, these costs can become prohibitive for many. Cerebral partners with many major insurance providers, which may allow you to use your insurance to help cover the cost of care. You can also use HSA or FSA funds as your primary payment method. If you’re not covered, rest assured that we’ve intentionally built our service plans to be as affordable as possible, with clients paying as much as 50% less than in-person care.  2. Qualifications Any therapist you choose must have the right qualifications and licensure. Like many medical services, becoming a mental health therapist requires engaging in years of education and training. There are multiple licenses that allow people to practice mental health therapy in the U.S., including: PhD or PsyD (licensed psychologist) LCSW (licensed clinical social worker) LPC (licensed professional counselor) LMHP (licensed mental health professional) You can look up potential therapists’ information through the state licensing board. At Cerebral, we vet all of our therapists’ training, licenses, and qualifications. 3. Specializations Even among licensed and qualified therapists, there is a lot of variety. It’s important to choose a mental health provider who has the specializations and expertise to treat what you, specifically, are going through. Determine the therapist’s experience working with clients who face similar concerns as you do or on areas of focus that are important to you. During your first session, you can also ask about the specific treatment methods they use so you can find the person who best meets your needs. Having a therapist who understands the cultural context of your experiences is also an important factor many individuals consider. There doesn’t necessarily need to be an exact cultural match between you and your therapist - but many people understandably prefer to work with therapists who share parts of or have expertise in their identity. Cerebral makes it easy and convenient by putting therapist profiles on our website, allowing you to browse all providers in your state so you can select the provider you want. And, if things don’t work out with your choice, you can switch therapists at any point. 4. Reviews and Testimonials One way to gather information on whether a potential therapist is a good fit for you is to look for reviews and testimonials. Some therapists may not have client reviews published for the public, but you may be able to ask them to share private and anonymized testimonials. You can also search online for reviews and testimonials of the therapist. Look for reviews that speak to the things that are most important to you when looking for a therapist. For example, you might look for reviews that mention the therapist’s experience and skill in working with the concerns you’re facing.  5. Comfort and Connection Lastly, sometimes what to look for in a therapist can’t be measured - it’s more about following your gut. Research shows that therapeutic rapport is essential in good therapy outcomes.  When you first meet your therapist, how do you feel with them? Do you feel like they understand and respect you? Does the way they communicate with and respond to you help you feel safe and comfortable? Do you feel like you can show up as your full self in sessions with them? These signals of good therapeutic rapport may not happen right away. It’s generally recommended to try seeing a therapist for at least three sessions before deciding whether or not it’s a good fit. But if you simply don’t feel connected with your therapist, trust your instincts and try a different therapist. Find a Therapist with Cerebral Cerebral simplifies the process of finding an online therapist and accessing the mental health support you deserve. Our licensed therapists are specially trained in the Cerebral Way, our intentional approach to mental health care designed to help you achieve meaningful progress. With the Cerebral Way, you're not just a name or diagnosis. Your therapist understands your specific needs, goals, and experiences, shaping a path forward that is unique to you. Your clinician will review your goals and milestones so you can see how much progress you’re making and adjust your care if your needs change. And if you find that you're not making the progress you’d like to see with your therapist, you have the flexibility to switch to a new one at any time.  Start your therapy journey with Cerebral today.