My mom may have Bipolar?

Question

How do I confront my mom that she has symptoms of Bipolar?

Answer 1

First, you must be sure that she has bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder was formerly known as "manic-depression" which describes the disorder very accurately. Your mom will alternate between a manic state and a depressive state. During the manic state, she may be giddy or just downright happy-go-lucky. In the depressive state, she'll have symptoms of clinical depression. Between the manic and depressive states she will probably experience a period of normal behavior.

Once you have made sure that she does have bipolar disorder, I recommend approaching her with your diagnosis when she is experiencing normal behavior. The next best thing would be during the manic state. Never approach her during the depressive state, this may invoke suicidal thoughts (It does sound a bit absurd, I know, but it is totally possible). Also recommend her seeing a psychiatrist.

I hope I helped. :)

Answer 2

Hello,

if your mom does have bipolar, chances are she doesn't know, or doesn't want to admit it. Don't think that handling her info is going to do the trick... it's not that simple!

Also do not suppose her to be unable to face it or find it "offensive". Many people with mental problems aren't victims and are smarter than crying the whole time over which word was used and why. In other words, don't treat her like a whiner!

Just say "mom, I care about you. I noticed you display some behaviors that might indicate you have bipolar disorder. Would you please read this material and evaluate your own behaviors as if you were looking at yourself from outside?". Then add "I want you to know that whatever the diagnosis might be, I'll stick by your side".

She'll probably be scared at the mere perspective of *reading* about it but knowing you are by her side will be a huge comfort.

Answer 3

I would not just say "mom, I think you are bipolar" because most people find it offensive to be called bipolar. Instead, i suggest that you talk to her in private and tell her that you are concerned about her emotional health. Try to avoid the word "mental" while talkign to her, since most people with mental health problems find the word "mental" offensive as well. Just tell her why you are concerned about her emotional health, and tell her you want her to see a doctor for advice and assistance.

Taking a sensitive approach is the best way for you to confront her about her problems.

Answer 4

some of the symptoms of bipolar are located in many diseases . doesnt necessarily mean its bipolar.
could be shes on the verge of a nervous breakdown . or is
having anxiety attacks. or many different diseases.
or something else associated with the nervous system..
just have her go for her yearly check up and corner the doctor before he sees he and tell himher symptoms. and let him handle it.

Answer 5

It's bipolar disorder, for starters. I would go to webmd.com, and print out the topic overview, symptoms, and treatment pages for it, and then give it to her. You should not be "confronting" your mom (I'm assuming you're still a teen). Tell her you love her, and are worried about her. Leave her to read the printouts.

Answer 6

I'm a nurse. There is no easy way to confront your mom. I would ask her in a nice way when you are both comfortable to talk with each other.

Answer 7

That is a very difficult thing to do especially if she is infact bi-polar and unmedicated. if you think she will be reasonable sit down and talk to her heart to heart without judging. If you dont think so the best idea I have is if you have the same family doctor talk to him and perhaps he can address this with her, keeping in mind everything you tell him is confidential.

Answer 8

i'll educate u cuz i'm bipolar [e-mail]. try being patient. try mentalhealth.com. there is online therapy that may help her out. metanoia.org, asktheinternettherapist.com.

Answer 9

First educate yourself on the label more and talk to someone qualified to make diagnoses. If the mood swings do not significantly affect a person's life, it is not supposed to be labeled with a diagnosis.

Answer 10

I would ask her to get an eval from her doctor so he could rule out other problems.. like post menaposal and things like that. just be honest about your concerns...