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     What you should avoid saying:

*It's all in your head.                                                *We all go through times like this.                            *You'll be fine. Stop worrying.                              *Look on the bright side.                                         *You have so much to live for, why do you want to die?                                                                            *I can't do anything about your situation.                   *Just snap out of it.                                                  *Stop acting crazy.                                                   *What's wrong with you?                                          *Shouldn't you be better by now?

How long will it take before the person feels better?

Some people are able to stabilize quickly after starting treatment; others take longer and need to try several treatments, medications or medication combinations before they feel better. Talk therapy can be helpful for managing symptoms during this time.

If you friend or family member is facing treatment challenges, the person needs your support can patience more than ever. Education can help you find out all the options that are available and decide whether a second opinion is needed. Help your loved one to take medication as prescribed, and don't assume the person isn't following the treatment plan just because he or she isn't feeling 100% better.

      There is hope:

As a friend or family member of someone who is coping with bipolar or depression, your support is an important part of working toward wellness. Don't give up hope. Treatment for mood disorders does work, and the majority of people with mood disorders can return to stable and productive lives. Keep working with your loved one and his or her health care providers to find treatments that work, and keep reminding your loved one that you are there for support.

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