What is what to do when someone with bipolar pushes you away?

When someone with bipolar disorder pushes you away, it can be a painful and confusing experience. Here's some information on how to navigate this situation:

• Understand the Underlying Reasons: Recognize that the pushing away is often a symptom of their disorder, not a personal reflection on you. It could stem from:

  • Depression: During a depressive episode, they may withdraw due to feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, or lack of energy.
  • Mania/Hypomania: During manic or hypomanic episodes, they might become impulsive, irritable, or feel a need for isolation or new relationships. They may also not feel like they need support from others.
  • Fear of Burdening You: They may worry about being a burden or causing you stress with their mood swings.
  • Guilt or Shame: They may feel guilty or ashamed of their behavior during mood episodes and distance themselves as a result.
  • Feeling Misunderstood: They may feel as though you cannot understand or relate to their experiences and therefore distance themself from the situation.

• Give Them Space: Respect their need for space without taking it personally. Continually pressuring them will likely make the situation worse. Let them know you're there for them when they are ready.

• Communicate Your Support: Even while giving space, let them know you care and are available to listen without judgment. Send a simple text, card, or message expressing your support. Avoid blaming or criticizing. Focus on statements like, "I'm thinking of you and here if you need anything."

• Avoid Taking It Personally: Remind yourself that their behavior is often a result of their illness. It's important to separate their actions from your worth as a friend or loved one.

• Maintain Your Own Well-being: It's easy to get caught up in their struggles, but it's crucial to prioritize your own Mental Health. Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist.

• Encourage Professional Help: If they're not already receiving treatment, gently encourage them to seek or continue Professional Help. Offer to help them find a therapist or psychiatrist if they're open to it.

• Educate Yourself: The more you learn about Bipolar Disorder, the better equipped you'll be to understand and support them.

• Set Healthy Boundaries: While offering support, it's also important to establish Healthy Boundaries for your own well-being. You can't force someone to accept help, and you're not responsible for their actions. It's OK to say "no" to things that are detrimental to your own mental health.

• Be Patient: Recovery and stability take time. Be prepared for ups and downs, and continue to offer support and understanding.