Supporting someone with bipolar can take a lot out of you

Bipolar UK support is open to you

Bipolar UK says its free services are open to everyone affected by bipolar, including family, friends, carers and colleagues. Its current options include a peer-support line, an online community and in-person or online groups.

These are not crisis services. Bipolar UK directs immediate risk to 999 and lists Samaritans and NHS 111 among urgent support options.

Set a role you can sustain

Bipolar UK advises discussing the other person's expectations alongside your own needs and responsibilities. It says that taking a break, saying no and seeking your own support are reasonable.

A boundary can be practical: which calls you can take, what money you will not lend, when you will contact professional help and which tasks need to be shared with someone else.

You do not have to call yourself a carer

Rethink notes that people may find carers' services useful even when they do not use that word for themselves. Depending on where you live and how much support you provide, local carer services may offer advice, groups or an assessment of your own needs.

If you need someone to listen today

Samaritans listens to anything that is troubling you. You do not have to be suicidal to call 116 123; it is free and open 24 hours a day.

Here for Someone is an independent information project. It is not a helpline or medical service. This page 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