A Relapse Plan for Bipolar Disorder

For those who have experienced recovery from bipolar disorder, and for their families, fear of relapse is a major concern. The person, once recovered, can become anxious at the thought of being out of control again. Like a walking time bomb, their recovery can so easily become erased. Relapse is a subject which needs to be addressed by both the individual and their family. It is necessary to broach this subject as relapses do occur and the patient needs to know that. The important thing to know is its ability to be weathered and dealt with.

Though the patient may view the hospital as a place to avoid, it is also a short-term stay and is no reflection on the client’s ability to take care of himself. It needs to be remembered this is a biochemical event which cannot be controlled 100% of the time. However, a negative attitude toward hospitalization and relapse can create within the ill family member reluctance to open up about symptoms if they recur. A family relapse plan often helps to get over these harsh feelings.

Making a contract to abide by the opinion of a trusted family member is one way for someone bipolar to approach the possibility they are having a relapse. Articulating a “drill” or plan whereby the family helps the loved one receive treatment can substantially reduce fears and concerns in a proactive manner. Addressing the steps needed to affect intervention in the relapse plan includes contacting doctors and therapists, identifying a hospital emergency room close to home, and engaging the ill person’s trust in a designated family member. This can go a long way in reducing the “drama” of the situation and reinforcing a calm manner and demeanor by those involved. Creating a relapse plan is something to bring up with a counselor or therapist trained in intervention. Fear can give way to understanding and hope, fostering acceptance. It is important to remember that the earlier intervention takes place, the fuller the recovery.

10 Items to Include in a Relapse Plan

1. Create a list of early warning signs of mania to give to family members.
2. Brainstorm with family members what action to take.
3. Assign a family member to call the psychiatrist & therapist.
4. Identify location of an emergency room.
5. Select a family member to watch over the children.
6. Agree on who will hold financial resources such as credit cards and checkbook.
7. Designate a family member who will hold car keys and drive client.
8. Decide and agree beforehand on a family member who will be trusted to give honest feedback about patient's behavior when insight is lacking on patient's part. Have patient agree to accept feedback and suggestions from family member at those times.
9. Avoid making life decisions.
10. Family members should be cautioned not to take patient's irritability personally, but rather as a symptom.