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Rapper Honey Singh got candid about his struggle with bipolar disorder. Here are ways in which you can support a loved one who has been diagnosed with this mood disorder.
Honey Singh talked about how he developed psychotic symptoms.
Honey Singh recently got candid about his struggle with bipolar disorder in his Netflix documentary, Yo Yo Honey Singh: Famous. The rapper talked about his symptoms and how he developed psychotic symptoms because of his mood disorder.
Appearing on his documentary, Honey Singh opened up about how he developed feelings of paranoia because of his bipolar disorder. He said, “Gradually, I developed symptoms of suspicion and paranoia, someone’s going to frame me or something weird like that. Maybe they’ll file a case against me. I didn’t really understand what was happening to me. Why was I feeling like this?”
Singh also mentioned how he agreed to join Shah Rukh Khan on tour in the United States even though he was not in the correct state of mind. He mentioned how he had smashed his head with a coffee mug because he did not want to perform. He said, “I’ll tell you what happened nine years ago. When they took me to Chicago for the show, I said, ‘I don’t want to perform’. I was sure that I was going to die during that show. Everyone told me that I should get ready, but I refused. My managers came over, and they said, ‘Why aren’t you getting ready?’ I said, ‘I’m not going’ I went to the washroom, took a trimmer, and I shaved my hair off. I said, ‘How will I perform now?’ They said, ‘Wear a cap and perform’. There was a coffee mug lying there. I picked it up and smashed it on my head.”
Talking about his bipolar disorder, he continued, “There were psychotic symptoms as well. It’s like your mind is in overdrive, and you spiral out of control. You start playing out your dreams in real life. I would get scared even when my maid used to come thinking she’d be laughing at me, she was wiping blood off the floor, etc. It was a weird feeling. I thought I’d never be able to meet my parents again. I saw hell. I wished for death every day.”
It is important to understand the complexities of bipolar disorder. In case a loved one has been diagnosed with this mood disorder, then here’s how you can help them.
- 1. Learn About Bipolar Disorder
Educate yourself about the symptoms, triggers, and treatment options for bipolar disorder. Understanding the condition will help you empathize with the person’s experiences.
- 2. Be Non-Judgmental and Patient
People with bipolar disorder may go through extreme mood swings, ranging from mania (feeling overly energetic or euphoric) to depression (feeling hopeless or lethargic). Be patient, avoid judgment, and provide a calm, supportive presence.
- 3. Offer Emotional Support
Be an active listener. Allow the person to express their feelings and emotions without offering unsolicited advice.
- 4. Encourage Professional Help
Bipolar disorder often requires professional treatment, including a mix of therapy and medication. Gently encourage your loved one to keep their appointments with mental health professionals and stay consistent with their prescribed treatment plans.
- 5. Recognize the Warning Signs
Be aware of early signs of a manic or depressive episode, such as changes in sleep patterns, energy levels, or mood. This will allow you to help them.
- 6. Create a Stable Environment
People with bipolar disorder often thrive in stable environments. You can help by reducing stressors by maintaining a predictable routine, minimizing chaos, and offering a safe space for relaxation.
- 7. Respect Boundaries
Understand that there may be times when your loved one needs space. Respect their boundaries and offer support in ways that they find comfortable. This might mean stepping back or even offering practical help.