When A Loved One Stops Bipolar Disorder Medication
When someone with bipolar disorder stops taking their medication, it can lead to challenges for both the individual and their loved one. While medication isn’t the only treatment option, it helps stabilize moods and manage the risk of severe episodes that can disrupt daily life. Recognizing early signs that a loved one has stopped taking their medication and responding promptly can support their long-term well-being. Having respectful, proactive conversations about taking medication can be a helpful strategy to encourage stability and prevent future manic or depressive episodes.
Here are five ways you can help your loved one if they stop taking their medications for treating bipolar disorder.
1: Consider why your loved one stops bipolar disorder medication.
Before addressing the situation, try to understand your loved one’s viewpoint. Common reasons why individuals with bipolar disorder stop taking medication include uncomfortable side effects, feeling “better” and therefore believing the medication isn’t needed anymore, or concern that the medications aren’t effective. Some people become exhausted or frustrated by long-term treatment.
Since you know your loved one well, reflecting on recent behavior changes or comments about their medication could be a good place to start before having a conversation with them. This will help them feel more comfortable opening up about their concerns. Understanding their perspective is crucial for having productive conversations about medication management and finding solutions that work for everyone involved.
2: Stay calm and avoid confrontation
When you talk to your loved one, approach the conversation as a check-in on their overall well-being. Don’t start by focusing only on why they stopped taking their medication. Arguing, guilt-tripping, or pressuring them to restart their medication can increase resistance and make them withdraw from the discussion. Instead, reassure them that you care about how they are doing, want to support them, and do not want to take away their autonomy.
Here are some examples of how to start a conversation and show you care:
- “I’ve noticed you seem a bit tired lately. How are you feeling?”
- “I care about you and want to understand what you’re going through. Would you like to talk?”
- “I’m here to listen without judgment. Is there anything on your mind that you’d like to share?”
3: Validate your loved one’s concerns and listen without judgment
Ask open-ended questions to better understand your loved one’s reason for stopping their medication. They may have several concerns, and acknowledging their experiences—verbally or through open body language like nodding and uncrossed arms—can reinforce your support. While actively listening, try to gently remind them of the potential risks of extended time off the medications, which could help them recognize why taking medication is important for their overall wellness.
Try these gentle reminders:
- “Last time you stopped taking your medication you had a difficult time at work. I want to make sure you’re feeling supported and stable.”
“I know it can be frustrating to take medication every day, but I’ve seen how much more balanced and energetic you are when you stick to your treatment plan.”
“You’ve worked really hard to get to a stable place with your treatment. I want to support you in maintaining that progress and staying well.”
4: Encourage your loved one to reach out to their treatment team
If your loved one has a good relationship with their psychiatrist, therapist, or other mental health professional, encouraging them to reach out about their concerns may help them stay on track with their treatment plan.
“I remember you mentioned the side effects were bothering you. Maybe we could talk to your doctor about adjusting the dosage or trying a different medication?” Offering, but not threatening or forcing, to schedule an appointment or phone call with the provider may also be a way you can be helpful.
If they are unreceptive, you could reach out to the professional yourself to keep them updated about any recent mood changes or new symptoms or get specific advice on how to be as supportive as possible given your individual situation. Remember, that unless your loved one has signed a release for their provider to talk with you, they may not be able to share specific details about your loved one’s treatment plan. However, you can still share your observations and concerns, which can help inform their approach to treatment.
5: Remember to take care of yourself and set firm boundaries when a loved one stops bipolar disorder medication
Supporting a loved one with bipolar disorder—especially when they aren’t taking their medication—can be a stressful and emotionally challenging experience. Take care of yourself and prioritize your well-being to maintain patience and compassion long-term. Seek advice and support from family members and friends to process your own thoughts and emotions. If possible, consult a therapist or caregiver support group. Finally, remember that setting clear boundaries is important—you can encourage treatment, but you can’t force compliance with a treatment plan.
Author
AuthorRaj Sastry is a graduate student at Harvard University passionate about mental health advocacy and the history of medicine.
Copy Editor
Nicole is a social worker turned adult learning expert with a passion for digital accessibility and plain language. She volunteers as an editor to help FFDA equip people with tools to support their loved ones. In her free time, Nicole enjoys podcasts, reading, painting, volunteering, and photography.