Supporting someone with
Bipolar
A high, a low and the time between episodes can call for different kinds of support. Start with what is happening now.
Source: NHS urgent-help guidance
Are they under 18? These pages focus on supporting an adult. See NHS support for children and young people. If you are under 18 and supporting someone else, see young-carer rights and support.
What do you need help with?
Their mood is high and things are escalating
Respond to less sleep, racing plans, spending, irritability or unusual beliefs.
ConversationI do not know what to say
Talk without minimising, arguing or treating every mood as a symptom.
ServicesHelp them get professional support
Use their existing team, GP or the urgent route, and prepare useful observations.
Refused helpThey do not think anything is wrong
Work with what they will discuss, share factual changes and act on urgent risk.
Between episodesPlan together for another difficult spell
Agree warning signs, a crisis plan, money safeguards and the support they want.
Longer termBuild a role you can keep
Review plans, keep money safeguards consent-based and protect your own limits.
If they seem low, withdrawn or hopeless
The depression area covers what to say, refused help, professional support and supporting someone over time. If you are worried about suicide, go straight to the suicide concern page.
If they are hearing or seeing things, or seem paranoid
Mania can sometimes include experiences that need the communication and urgent-help approach in the psychosis area.
What to say in the momentWhat this area is based on
Bipolar UK advises adapting support to the person's changing needs, learning warning signs together, planning during a stable period and keeping clear boundaries. Mind similarly recommends discussing warning signs, difficult times and practical support with the person rather than making assumptions.
Sources: Bipolar UK and Mind
Here for Someone is an independent information project. It is not a helpline or medical service. This area organises public guidance from the organisations linked beside the relevant information; it has not been clinically reviewed by Here for Someone.
Sources checked: 26 August 2026