What should I look for as a family member of someone with bipolar disorder? Know something about the disease. Family members should learn about bipolar disorder through a variety of sources to understand the symptoms and treatment of bipolar disorder. The more you know, the better you will be able to help your family and friends. It is good to be knowledgeable, but remember not to think that because you know, you can take over. Encourage patients to seek help. Bipolar disorder requires early diagnosis and treatment, and the earlier the treatment, the better the prognosis, so it is highly recommended that your patient seek professional help right away. Do not expect that the condition will improve on its own without treatment, much less that miracles can occur through your own psychological adjustment. Be understanding but not overly pampering. If he needs a listening ear, encouragement or help, let your patient know that you are always there for him, that you can look after him, care for him and help him. But he should not be pampered just because he is a patient; unprincipled compliance can be counterproductive. Be patient and confident enough. Bipolar disorder is a chronic and fluctuating disease that requires long-term treatment, and even if the patient actively cooperates, recovery will take some time. Do not expect immediate results or once and for all. Be patient and also be brave to face setbacks and failures. Bipolar disorder is a lifelong process of treatment. Be prepared to deal with disruptive behaviors. People with bipolar disorder may engage in disruptive or irresponsible behavior. It is useful to be prepared to cope in advance. When your loved one’s symptoms are stable, work with him to discuss strategies for coping with crisis situations to apply during the onset. Make agreements with the patient at every step of the action: for example, take back bank cards, confiscate car keys, go to medical appointments together, manage the family finances, etc. Know what to do in a crisis. It is very helpful to have a good crisis response strategy. The coping strategy must include details of hospitals and doctors, psychotherapists and other loved ones you can contact in an emergency, information about other people you can contact. If the patient is suicidal or violent, do not leave the patient alone. If your loved one may harm you, make sure it is safe to call the police. If it is suicidal, do not leave the person alone. Call 120 immediately and stay with the patient until the ambulance arrives.