This message is for Robyn and everyone... I suggest locating a support group that welcomes caregivers and support persons to attend. I am an assistant moderator of a Mood Disorder support group. It is not uncommon for first timers to the group to bring along a family member or support person. Often they are more eager to get answers than the individual. We will often shift our meeting to more of a question and answer session for the guest. Again and again I am thanked afterwards for the opportunity. I believe they walk away with a better understanding of their loved one's situation; their triggers; and, possible coping mechanisms. Most of all though, as we have members at all levels of their disease, it is an opportunity to realize they are not alone and that improvement is possible. It has appeared too that many of those support person who might have felt embarrassed experience a wave of relief.
