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Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology

Published in:

01-10-2018 | Original Paper

‘Between a rock and a hard place’: family members’ experiences of supporting a relative with bipolar disorder

Authors: Ella Baruch, Nancy Pistrang, Chris Barker

Published in: Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology | Issue 10/2018

Abstract

Purpose

Clinical guidelines emphasise the central role of family members in supporting people with bipolar disorder. However, there has been little focus on the challenges family members face in supporting their relative. This qualitative study explored the challenges of providing support to a relative with bipolar disorder, and how family members attempted to meet these challenges. Factors that helped or hindered their efforts were also explored, including experiences of professional support.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 family members (partners, parents, adult children, and siblings). Transcripts were analysed using the Framework approach.

Results

Participants faced numerous challenges pertaining to the nature of the disorder and specific illness phases, their relative’s responses to their attempts to help, and the limitations of support from healthcare professionals. Although participants were resourceful in managing these challenges, they strongly valued professional input. Six themes were identified: ‘Not knowing: like being in a minefield’, ‘It’s out of my control: sitting waiting for the next thing to happen’, ‘Treading on eggshells’, ‘Picking up on signs’, ‘Times of crisis: between a rock and a hard place’, and ‘I have to make my voice heard’.

Conclusions

Family members supporting a relative with bipolar disorder face significant challenges but show considerable resourcefulness in managing them. The findings underline the importance of input from healthcare professionals to help family members effectively support their relative and manage the challenges they face. Professional support should be strengths-based, and tailored to family members’ needs.

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Title: ‘Between a rock and a hard place’: family members’ experiences of supporting a relative with bipolar disorder
Authors: Ella Baruch
Nancy Pistrang
Chris Barker
Publication date: 01-10-2018
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology / Issue 10/2018
Print ISSN: 0933-7954
Electronic ISSN: 1433-9285
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00127-018-1560-8

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

‘Between a rock and a hard place’: family members’ experiences of supporting a relative with bipolar disorder

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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