How to help a family dealing with bipolar disorder

Natalie Flake readily admits she lived through the last years of her husband’s illness with the help of close friends in her Christian community.

“I tried to do this alone, but I couldn’t,” she admits.

A few ways her friends helped:

• A friend of her husband’s came almost daily to pray with and for Michael Flake.

“When Michael was depressed, he often couldn’t get out of bed and this friend would come by and sit by his bed and pray for him every day,” Flake recalls.

• A family provided a “safe house” for Natalie Flake and her daughter.

“I never was frightened of Michael, although I know that can happen with this disease. But, there were times when I needed a break and there were times when Jorjanne just didn’t need to be around Michael. We could go and stay for a few hours or a night. It was a good break.”

• A Bible study group prayed for the family, especially during difficult times.

“It helped to have a supportive group that listened, cared, and prayed for us.”