How can I take care of myself?
Taking care of someone with bipolar disorder can be extremely stressful. In order to best help your loved one, you need to be able to take care of yourself as well.
Here are ways to help relieve the emotional strains of caregiving:
Share the responsibility
If you have the option, share caregiving responsibility with other family members. This can help prevent you from "burning out" or feeling resentful. Everyone in your family should be aware of the symptoms of bipolar episodes and the signs of increased risk of suicide. Set specific tasks for other family members, such as picking up prescriptions or helping to manage the household and finances.
Find support groups
More than 5.7 million Americans have bipolar disorder, so you are not alone in caring for an individual with the illness. Many bipolar disorder support groups for caregivers meet locally and online. Support groups not only help you learn about the disorder and strategies for preventing and managing bipolar disorder symptoms, they also provide support for you during difficult times.
Take time for yourself
Schedule time for rejuvenation so the stress of caregiving doesn't lead to mental and physical exhaustion. Focus on what gives you pleasure: a walk outdoors, reading or listening to music, meeting a friend.
Consider mental health therapy for yourself
Family and social rhythms therapy can be useful to your loved one, and you probably will be included in the sessions. But you also may benefit from your own therapist — one who will focus on the stresses created by your caregiving role and your feelings about your loved one's illness.
![[ ]](/images/calloutlg_top.gif)
Use the Caregiver Diary to help keep track of conversations you have on behalf of your loved one, plus medications and doctor appointments.
![[ ]](/images/calloutlg_bot.gif)
Important Safety Information You Should Know about STAVZOR
Liver problems Your doctor should check your liver function before you start taking STAVZOR and at frequent intervals while you're on therapy. If you feel generally ill (malaise), weak, and tired, if your face is swollen and you lose your appetite, and start vomiting, call your doctor immediately.
Pregnancy: Birth defectsWomen who can become pregnant need to know that valproic acid has been associated with birth defects, in particular with spina bifida, a condition in which the baby's spinal canal fails to close. If you are planning to become pregnant, you should discuss the risks of birth defects, along with other possible treatment options, with your doctor. If you do become pregnant while taking STAVZOR, call your doctor immediately.
Read more important safety information about pregnancy.
PancreatitisSome people taking valproate have experienced a serious, life-threatening illness called pancreatitis (inflamed pancreas). If you experience stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and/or loss of appetite, call your doctor immediately.
Common side effects reported in studies with valproate were nausea, drowsiness, vomiting, and dizziness. These are not all the side effects that may occur. You will find a complete list of side effects in the full Prescribing Information.
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Recent Information about Antiepileptic Medications including STAVZOR® (valproic acid) Delayed Release Capsules for any use
For Patients and Caregivers
All antiepileptic medicines, used for any condition, may increase suicidal thoughts or actions in some patients. Pay close attention to any changes, especially sudden changes, in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. Keep all follow-up visits with the healthcare provider as scheduled. Call the healthcare provider between visits as needed, especially if you have concerns about symptoms.
Watch for and call the healthcare provider right away to report if you or your family member see the appearance or worsening of symptoms of depression, any unusual changes in mood or behavior, or the appearance of suicidal thoughts, behavior, or thoughts about self-harm. Behaviors of concern should be reported immediately to the healthcare provider.
For Healthcare Professionals
All antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), including STAVZOR, increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in patients taking these drugs for any indication. Anyone considering prescribing Stavzor or any other AED must balance their risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior with the risk of untreated illness.
Patients, their caregivers, and families should be informed that AEDs increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior and should be advised of the need to be alert for the emergence or worsening of the signs and symptoms of depression, any unusual changes in mood or behavior, or the emergence of suicidal thoughts, behavior or thoughts about self-harm. Behaviors of concern should be reported immediately to healthcare providers.
For medical inquiries specific to Stavzor, please call 1-800-455-8070
