By Sandra Zunino

Living with a family member who has bipolar disorder can be much like waiting for the next shoe to drop. Depending on the severity of the condition, bipolar sufferers are often unaware when they have reached a manic state and can be equally hard to deal with when they fall into a depression, but there is help out there.

The Mental Health Association of Talbot County has launched a new support group for family members of individuals with bipolar disorder. Meeting on the second Thursday of each month at the Easton Presbyterian Church, 617 North Washington Street, at 6:30 p.m., the first meeting will take place this Thursday, December 9.

A brain disorder, bipolar, aka manic-depressive disorder, causes unusual and severe shifts in mood, affecting energy, activity levels and even the ability to perform daily responsibilities. Often times, alcohol and drug dependency can be linked to bipolar sufferers who seek self-medication because they are unaware of their affliction. Sadly, the affects of the condition can not only lead to poor performance in school and on the job, but can wreak havoc on relationships as well. Bipolar sufferers also run a high risk for committing suicide, according to MHATC Executive Director Tina Mills.

Recent finding have uncovered that monitoring brainwave activity through brain scans may help with diagnosing bipolar disorder in the future; however, for now there is no simple test to identify the disease. Sometimes misdiagnosed as ADHD or schizophrenia, patients and families can travel down a long and confusing path. “We are getting closer to defining whether a patient has bipolar,” says Tina, “but we are not there yet.”

While bipolar disorder can be treated with therapy and medications, helping patients lead full and productive lives, it may take time to find the right medication. Sometimes patients convince themselves they no longer need medications resulting in relapses. The love and support of family members can be critical for the treatment and recovery of someone with bipolar disorder.

“Family plays a big role,” says Tina. “Our support group is for family members; because it takes sometimes a family to keep everyone going and figure out how to avoid triggers that can cause an episode.”

Facilitated by Psycho Therapist Kirstie Kingston, the group is an excellent source for comprehending this complex biological disorder that affects approximately two percent of the population. “We want someone professional there to answer questions,” says Tina, “but support groups are what they are because of the people who belong to them. It’s their group and Kirstie is there to answer questions, organize and help it be what they want it to be.”

Support group members will not only find new resources such as books and local authorities on the disease to help with the treatment of their loved one, they can also find solace just by talking about their experiences. “There is something kind of magical about support,” says Tina. “Having someone who hears you and hears your pain and understands what you are going through can be very helpful.”

For more information about the Mental Health Association of Talbot County or the bipolar disorder support group, call 410-822-0444 or visit www.mhamdes.org.