In France, 2.5% of the population is said to be suffering from bipolar disorder. A figure that seems underestimated for patient associations that highlight the 8 to 10 years needed to make a diagnosis. On the occasion of World Bipolar Disorder Day on March 30, let’s discover the role played by these associations, with patients and their loved ones.
Bipolar disorders, a patient but also loved ones!
The main objective of World Bipolar Disorder Day in this year 2023 is to honor families and loved ones living with someone with bipolar disorder. How are the patients cared for? How are relatives or relatives of patients considered by health professionals? The action taken over the years by patient and family associations has made it possible to make progress on these issues.
Social isolation is common in people with bipolar disorder. The relatives of the patient are therefore potentially multiple:
- Parents ;
- Friends ;
- Relatives ;
- Patient associations.
And now, health professionals and dedicated institutions regularly take into consideration the patient’s close entourage in the context of support and care.
Relatives, actors in the care
On the occasion of the world day of bipolar disorders, the national association Argos 2001 organizes a day dedicated to this complex mental pathology and still little known to the general public. It also asks its regional offices to organize various events, the list of which can be accessed at the following link: journeemondialetroublesbipolaires.fr. The organization of this day meets several objectives:
- allow families to understand, adapt and act with a loved one with bipolar disorder;
- To specify the involvement of relatives in the patient’s care pathway;
- Prevent family breakdowns and therefore the isolation of the patient.
The place of relatives in the care of bipolar patients is a major issue. On the one hand, it is essential that the patient retains his place in the family and that his ties with those close to him are preserved from the torments and upheavals of the disease. On the other hand, the care of the patient cannot be done in total disconnection from relatives. It can become optimal by including loved ones in decision-making and the journey.
The patient and his family, together against bipolar disorders
For the patient, having loved ones by his side can be a great daily help and allow it to preserve their identity and self-esteem. For relatives, participating in the patient’s journey is a way to better understand the disease and better manage the different phases, especially the critical phases. Such integration can facilitate communication between the patient and his relatives, but also prevent the patient from being assimilated only to his disease. But health professionals must also ensure that relatives are recognized for their work with the patient.
The role of relatives in the prevention of relapses and in the management of crises is also essential for the care teams. Relatives can become experts in recognition of the first evocative signs acute phase and convince the patient to consult. Moving forward together in the face of bipolar disorder can strengthen the bond between the patient and their loved ones and reduce the burden of illness for both.
Estelle B., Doctor of Pharmacy
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