Vidhu Vinod Chopra reveals daughter Ishaa’s struggle with bipolar disorder; tips to help loved ones

Vidhu Vinod Chopra In a recent interview, her daughter Ishaa shared the battle she faces with bipolar disorderSpeaking about it, Chopra said that she was shocked to learn that her daughter was unwell. She also said that her family doctor played a major role in raising Ishaa and was the one who diagnosed her with bipolar disorder.

Chopra said: “When I heard that she was unwell, I was in shock. Our family doctor was the first person I called. I owe him a lot. He has played a big role in raising my daughter. He diagnosed her with bipolar disorder and that was when I got my first lesson about what bipolar disorder is. Through his guidance, I understood that it is an illness like any other and that we should fight it together as a family.”

She added: “My job was to take care of their stress. That is the first thing the caregiver or the family has to do. I hate to make this comparison, but since I am writing a fantasy, I have to say it: like in the Sagar Manthan, the family has to take the poison out of the mind of the suffering relative, hold it in and bear it.”

Bipolar disorder is “a mental health disorder that causes extreme mood swings. These include emotional highs, also known as mania or hypomania, and depression. Hypomania is less extreme than mania,” the Mayo Clinic states.

The Cleveland Clinic states that there are a few types of bipolar disorder, which involve significant fluctuations in mood, known as hypomanic/manic and depressive episodes. “However, people with bipolar disorder are not always in a hypomanic/manic (high emotion) or depressive (low emotion) state. They also experience periods of normal mood, known as euthymia.”

Tips to help your loved ones suffering from bipolar disorder

Educate yourself

Understanding the disease, including its symptoms, treatments, and cycles, can help you empathize and respond appropriately. Knowing mood swings, medications, and also possible triggers can help you provide support and avoid actions that may make the disease worse.

Consistent treatment

Bipolar disorder often requires long-term treatment that includes medication and therapy. Support your loved one by making sure they stick to their treatment plan and help them understand the importance of regular doctor visits.

Communicate openly

Foster a supportive environment where your loved one feels comfortable sharing their feelings. Try to actively listen, validate their experiences, and avoid judgment. Open communication can help strengthen the relationship and make things easier for you.

Managing stress

Supporting someone with bipolar disorder can be emotionally draining. It’s important to take care of your own mental health by setting boundaries and seeking support for yourself.

Be prepared for the crisis

Make sure you have a plan ready for emergencies like mood swings or suicidal thoughts. Understand the warning signs of a crisis and have local mental health resources on hand.