Reader Story: Bipolar Disorder and Wives, Husbands and Partners

Hi Julie. I just discovered your blog. I have a question; are you married or in a relationship? I am married to someone with bipolar and I have young children. I wake up each and everyday wondering “what will happen today.” I don’t know if I can do it much longer. I guess I’m looking for some sort of hope. Thanks, Marie

Hi Marie,

Here is a short answer. I will answer in more detail in the next newseltter.

1. Most people have trouble when one person has bipolar. Period. I know because I do a lot of coaching with partners. So you are not alone at all- what you experience is common.

2. Many are able to learn skills to help communication when the person is in a mood swing- I call my system the Bipolar Conversation. Remember, when your partner is in a mood swing, you are talking to the illness. You both have to learn to get past this.

3. I highly suggest you read Loving Someone with Bipolar Disorder: Understanding and Helping your partner. I wrote this with my colleague Dr. John Preston and it is guaranteed to help and give you skills to help communication – and to help you make a decision with what you can and can’t handle. My ex parnter Ivan and I were together for ten years – this book came from our experiences when he was in a massive manic/psychotic episode and in the hospital for two months. I was diagnosed a year later- so it has both perspectives! We are no longer together, but it was not due to bipolar and we are still in regular contact!

These are a few tips- I will go into detail in the newsletter. It will be out within the next week- so please check your email and spam.

Thanks for your question. Julie

PS: If you look to the right on the blog and scroll down- there is a category list and relationships is one of the topics.