5 Ways to Convince Someone With Bipolar Disorder to See a Doctor

5 Ways to Convince Someone With Bipolar Disorder to See a Doctor...

Bipolar Disorder
March 21, 2025

Millions of people worldwide are affected by the complex illness known as bipolar disorder.Both the affected person and their loved ones may find it difficult to navigate the experience.It goes without saying that finding support for bipolar disorder can be difficult, and persuading someone to seek therapy for bipolar disorder can be even harder.But there are effective approaches to take to convince someone with bipolar disorder to see a doctor and obtain the support they require.One of the ways to convince someone with bipolar disorder to see a doctor is by showing your support by offering to go with them to appointments.The dread of the unknown might sometimes be what holds someone back; volunteering to follow them may be just what they need to go for it.Sometimes sharing success stories can go a long way.This is one of the effective ways to convince someone with bipolar disorder to see a doctor.With the right approach, success stories can be a powerful motivator.Another alternative is to offer information or resources on bipolar disorder.In order to do this, you are also required to know about the information you are sharing.Hence, learning about the disorder is essential to convince them to see a doctor.Learn more details about ways to convince someone with bipolar disorder to see a doctor below.

Address Them With Compassion Rather Than Criticism

Compassionately broaching the subject is one of the ways to convince someone with bipolar disorder to see a doctor.It's crucial to approach the subject with understanding and compassion while attempting to persuade someone with bipolar disorder to seek medical attention.Criticism and harsh language may only make someone want to distance themselves further and make them less likely to ask for assistance.Sometimes, they are aware that something is off with how they have been feeling, but they lack the courage or aren't sure how to reach out.In some other cases, they have no idea that something is going on with them and might not be aware of what you can see as symptoms.In any case, talk to them about it after learning about bipolar disorder.Once you are ready to speak with them, it is crucial to do so in a sensitive manner.It's important to keep in mind that bipolar disorder is a difficult and sometimes misunderstood diagnosis and the person may find it difficult to accept and comprehend their symptoms.While discussing the matter, try to avoid being confrontational or dismissive and instead approach it with empathy and understanding.

A doctor holding his stethoscope

Offer to Schedule a Doctor's Appointment for the Individual

One effective way to convince someone with bipolar disorder to see a doctor is to offer to schedule a doctor's appointment for them.This strategy can relieve some of the person's stress and show that you care about their mental health.Making an appointment for the person demonstrates your interest in their well-being and commitment to assisting them in overcoming their obstacles.Depending on their requirements, you could offer to make an appointment for them with a mental health specialist, like a therapist or psychiatrist.Many people see both a therapist and a psychiatrist.Nevertheless, the best course of treatment for bipolar disorder depends on the individual.The individual's objectives will determine where to begin.

Offer to Go With Them for the Appointment

Convincing someone with bipolar disorder to seek medical attention is crucial to recovery.However, the process can be overwhelming and daunting once they are ready to make an appointment.For example, the process of finding the right professional to contact or sorting out insurance can sometimes deter them from going forward with seeking help.That's where you can come in to help.Making the offer to assist them with the appointment-making process can make a significant difference.By learning how their insurance operates and looking up doctor ratings online, you may assist them in finding the best physician.This can help them get the finest care possible and eliminate any needless stress during the procedure.You might offer to help with practical issues like child care and transportation in addition to assisting them in finding the best doctor.Knowing they have someone they can rely on to help with these things may put them at ease.‍

Share Success Stories

Sharing success stories of people who have bipolar disorder and have gotten treatment can be a powerful tool for motivating others to get help.These success stories might inspire those who may be having trouble asking for help or who have doubts about medical treatment.You can discuss success stories about individuals who overcame their diagnoses to live happy lives.Such stories can be found in various sources, such as online support groups or mental health websites.These stories can be effective in breaking down the stigma associated with the condition and encouraging others who may be hesitant to seek help to do so.Sharing success stories can make people with bipolar disorder feel less alone and more inspired to seek treatment.

Offer Information/Resources

It's crucial to support your concern with research-based materials when persuading someone with bipolar disorder to consult a specialist.Having a few papers and online resources available to share is one efficient method to accomplish this.It's vital to approach the topic with your issue expressed in a forthright but considerate way.They will understand that you are not criticizing them but rather showing support and concern for their well-being if you give specific examples of their actions or symptoms that have been disturbing to others.By completing these measures, you can assist your loved one in moving closer to self-realization and mental healing.Understand that the conversation can be challenging, but by approaching it with compassion and care, you will be able to make a significant difference in their life.

Conclusion

Encouraging an individual with bipolar disorder to seek medical attention can be a daunting process, but with the right approach, it can be done.By showing understanding and compassion and offering support for bipolar disorder, you can help someone take the crucial steps towards improving their mental and physical well-being.Some ways to convince someone with bipolar disorder to see a doctor include learning more about bipolar disorder, addressing them with compassion rather than criticism, offering to schedule a doctor's appointment for the individual, offering to go with them for the appointment, and offering information/resources.

Resources

https://www.healthyplace.com/blogs/breakingbipolar/2010/09/how-do-i-convince-my-friend-to-get-help-for-bipolar-disorder

https://www.bridgestorecovery.com/blog/what-to-do-when-your-loved-one-with-bipolar-disorder-refuses-treatment/

https://ibpf.org/communication-and-trust-how-do-i-convince-a-loved-one-to-seek-help/

https://ibpf.org/articles/what-to-do-if-you-think-someone-might-have-bipolar-disorder/

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/bipolar-disorder/helping-someone-with-bipolar-disorder.htm

https://www.everydayhealth.com/bipolar-disorder/ways-you-can-help-a-loved-one-with-bipolar-disorder/

Author
Jennifer Luttman, LPC, ACS

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and owner of Overcomers Counseling. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing through life’s challenges. With a deep understanding of mental health and years of professional experience, I specialize in fostering hope and resilience while equipping her clients with tools to thrive. Passionate about empowering others, she creates a safe, supportive space where everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of overcoming obstacles on their path to well-being.

Common Questions about Bipolar Disorder

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