I’m a relationship with someone who has bipolar

I’m bipolar 2, and have been with my partner for about seven years. The best thing anyone has said to me, and that I say to others who struggle with mental illness is “how can I support you”. Honestly listening, open healthy communication, and sometimes just giving them space is the best thing to do. I’m going to have my husband respond to this as well from my account when he gets off work, so you have some insight from someone in your position. Be patient new diagnoses can be really difficult for the person.

Hi @Martino2022

I saw your post and was wondering how you have been dealing with this the past couple of months?

Also wanted to know if you would be able to discuss how it all happened, like the diagnosis and stuff and how it affected your relationship?

I am in the same situation, and I’m lost and so stressed. It’s really taking a toll on me and I don’t even know what to do or who to speak to.

I really hope you’re still coming on to this platform and get my message!

Hello #Martino

It is a good start to seek help on how to support your partner. I also think it is important to support your partner in maintaining the treatment by showing interest. Show patients by also avoiding stressor as much as possible. Try to monitor what triggers the episodes. Do not forget to also look after yourself. Least but not last remember to stay calm.

Great of you to be so supportive. I'm bipolar I and only recently reconnected with a high school friend that is helpful. My family doesn't understand and was initially argumentative saying it wasn't true. They eventually came around to believe it's true but handed no idea what to do or say. They often even trigger episodes themselves. It's better when they say nothing rather than say the wrong thing. I'm 45 btw, even though these last few statements probably makes me sound like a teenager.

I would say everyone is different so it's important to recognize what you do that here and what doesn't with your partner. Personally, I couldn't even recognize myself when I was in an episode or that me feelings were not normal. Even someone saying something like "you're not yourself today" would have been helpful.

Find things that make him happy and gently bring them up if he's depressed. Forward looking things, realistic plans, not "one day" or "or in the sky" stuff, but realistic.

I personally hate generic phrases like "it gets better" or "you have a great life". An impromptu weekend getaway was often very helpful. Separate from the situation, do something they enjoy. I often go to NYC and Broadway, which made covid hard on me.

Sorry him and pay attention to happen he reacts. Remembr you're a wonderful person, you can help, but you can't do it for him.

My husband just got diagnosed with bipolar disorder. I am not knowledgeable on this but I am looking for support from people in similar situations