2. Learn the early warning signs of an episode.
The warning signs of a manic or depressive episode vary per person. Pay attention to your friend’s attitude and habits, such as eating and sleeping changes or excessive shopping. When you get to know the signs, you can warn your friend and her physician about the episode before it happens.
READ: My Story: Black, Beautiful & Living With Bipolar Disease
3. Positive influence.
It’s important that you help your friend make healthy choices. Instead of a bar, suggest cooking dinner or going to the movies. It may help, too, if you exercise with your friend or engage in healthy eating together. Make your activities a collaborative effort instead of something your friend has to suffer alone.
4. Attend treatments.
Let your friend know that she isn’t alone in her struggle by going to doctor visits with her. That way, you can also alert the physician of any habits or concerns that your friend may not recognize as a problem. You’ll also benefit directly from the visits, too, as you’ll learn more about the illness and how you can better help your friend.