Caregivers are relied upon by both patients and medical professionals to bridge the gap between medical care and homelife. They may be needed to deliver medicines and medical care, ensure basic tasks of daily living, or monitor health. Caregivers are often close relatives without medical expertise, but they play an important role in overall wellness and disease management. Bipolar disorder is a psychiatric condition associated with episodes of mania and depression. Because of these potential mood swings, many people with bipolar disorder may require some degree of help or monitoring from a caregiver. Medicine and behavioral steps may also help protect against the onset of mania or depression. Since caregivers are so involved in patients' lives, it may be important for the caretaker to better understand bipolar disorder so they understand treatment and know the signs of worsening mood in the patient.
Researchers from Spain examined the impact on patients when caregivers attended groups that provided psychological support and bipolar education classes (psychoeducation). The study, published in Bipolar Disorder, found that psychoeducation for caregivers may decrease recurrence of mania or hypomania in patients.
How Does This Affect You?
The design of this study is generally considered very reliable. One point of concern in this study design is something called attention control. The participants in the treatment group met with a professional and their fellow caretakers 12 times, but the control group did not have any meetings at all. Because of this difference, it is hard to determine if the specific treatment was effective or if the benefit simply came from regular meetings and support from others.
If you are caring for someone with bipolar disorder, look for support options. Ask those providing medical care if there are options to help you best care for someone with bipolar disease. There may also be local support groups and classes or online groups to connect you to others who take care of people with bipolar disorder. These groups may not only provide emotional but also practical support. As a caretaker, it is also important to make sure you have some help and downtime. Look for other family members or medical/social services that can provide you with relief when needed.