Curious about a bipolar relationship? Do you or your partner experience bipolar disorder? Is your partner hot and cold towards you? Suspicious if it’s a real issue or just a phase?
I know how you are feeling… confused and overwhelmed.
But now that you’ve reached this think-piece… This will be the end of all your worries.
And guess what? Even if you’re in a bipolar relationship, we can work it out! Hopefully, that brought back some color to your face.
But even if you can’t, I know exactly what you need.
With better hopes for the future, let’s hop right in!
Bipolar Relationship Infographics
What is Bipolar Relationship?
Summary
A bipolar relationship refers to the dynamics or issues in a relationship, where one of the partners suffers from bipolar disorder. The issues mainly arise due to the unaddressed bipolar symptoms.
A bipolar relationship is a relationship issue people with bipolar disorder might face.
The mental illness itself doesn’t result in relationship issues. However, the symptoms of bipolar disorder might become the culprit.
So, naturally, any person experiencing bipolar disorder fears affecting relationships with their bipolar disorder symptoms.
Since the issues are related to a mental illness, your next question must be…
But, what is Bipolar Disorder?
Summary
Bipolar disorder is a mental illness where a person experiences high highs and low lows of their mood. Six kinds of bipolar disorder have been identified till now.
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition with severe mood swings. A person living with bipolar disorder might experience a combination of different periods or episodes.
They are mania – high energy, light moods; hypomania – light moods but less than mania; and depression – grief and despairing state.
The different types of bipolar disorder are:
- Bipolar I: Patients experience at least one manic episode annually along with a depressive episode.
- Bipolar II: Patients suffer from hypomanic episodes along with depressive ones.
- Cyclothymic disorder: In this, the patient has hypomanic and depressive symptoms for two years minimum. However, the symptoms don’t completely match with either Bipolar I or Bipolar II.
- Mixed State: This is when a person experiences both mania and hypomania within a single time period.
- Rapid Cycling: Here, a patient experiences a minimum of four episodes of depression, mania, or hypomania within one year.
- Unspecified: In this, the patient’s bipolar criteria do not completely match with a particular bipolar spectrum disorder.
Usually, experts treat bipolar disorder with a combination of medications and psychotherapy.
Anxious if your relationship is any better? Let’s find out here…
Signs you’re in a bipolar relationship
Romantic relationships, where a partner has bipolar disorder, aren’t necessarily bipolar relationships.
It is when some unhealthy dynamics show up in the relationship…. either due to misbelief of the illness or for its symptoms.
In a bipolar relationship, either of you may suffer from bipolar disorder. But these are a few signs that you’ll face when your partner is suffering from the disorder.
1. You feel like a nanny
If your partner experiences severe mood swings, you might have to accommodate them more. However, are you the caretaker in your relationship? If yes, then that’s a red flag.
Though some partners feel enthusiastic initially, eventually it becomes burdensome.
2. You feel burnout
A bipolar partner needs regular support. But if you feel tired tending to your partner’s needs, this is an unhealthy relationship.
Though you may not feel negatively towards the situation, it takes a toll on your physical and mental health. In the long run, you may fall severely sick… or give up on the relationship.
3. You let go of your dreams
You support your partner more due to their mental health conditions. This might demand extreme compromise from you. You might give up on your life goals, beliefs, and desires.
Compromise is normal in relationships… but if it becomes one-sided, you’re in big trouble. Partners in romantic relationships must support one another’s goals.
But if your partner behaves selfishly, or you feel a compulsion to give into such needs, there are unhealthy dynamics.
4. Your partner stopped the meds
One of the worst signs is that your partner suddenly said “I’m all cured”. If they claim something like that and you haven’t consulted their expert yet… It’s a huge red flag.
Your partner is putting you both in danger and that’s not a sign of a healthy relationship.
5. You don’t believe it
A bipolar relationship sometimes can be a result of the patient’s partner.
For instance, you don’t believe that the mood disorder exists, deny them treatment, or dismiss your partner’s issues like “There’s nothing called bipolar disorder… you don’t have it.”
This is a turning point in the relationship. Staying in a relationship with a bipolar partner is dangerous.
Suspect your partner is bipolar? Let’s know your next step here…
What if your spouse has undiagnosed bipolar disorder?
For undiagnosed bipolar disorder, firstly look for signs of…
Mania
- High spirits
- Excess self-confidence
- Concentration issues
- Irritability
- Impulsivity with money or sex
- Sleepless nights
Depression
- Mostly drowsy, needs more sleep
- Withdrawal from loved ones
- Sudden spurts of sadness or blues
- Disinterest in usually liked activities
- Signs of hopelessness
- Suicidal tendencies
If you notice some signs of bipolar disorder in your spouse, communicate with them to seek help…
- Tell your spouse that you spotted bipolar signs in them. Don’t judge or demean them.
- Tell them you’re concerned and want to help. You’re ready to support them however they need
- Discuss their recent feelings and whether they experienced any mood swings at all.
- Actively listen to their part of the story. Don’t jump to conclusions, don’t assume you understand their feelings.
- Ask them what they think of getting professional assistance like individual or couples counseling. If they’re open, reassure them with support. If not, ask them how much time they’ll take until they seek support.
But there’s more to do if they’re aware. Let’s know…
What if your spouse has diagnosed bipolar disorder?
Summary
If your partner has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, remember it’s a great challenge. It might impact you emotionally, psychologically, or physically. It can lead to separations too.
A relationship with a bipolar partner is challenging to the unaffected one. Your partner’s unpredictability might stress you out.
It is not as easy as caretaking a feverish or weak partner. Your mental health is at risk too.
When your partner experiences mood episodes, they’ll behave and function differently. You might pick your partner’s and even family responsibilities all alone.
Burnouts are normal in such situations. Medically reviewed research shows that the challenges lead to separations in romantic relationships.
If you’re married, or about to marry a bipolar partner, know the challenges here…
What are the effects of Bipolar Disorder on a marriage?
Bipolar disorder is a greater issue to married couples than others. In healthy relationships, people divide responsibilities equally. However, that might not be possible during bipolar episodes.
Let’s know which areas of your life are most threatened…
1. Communication
Though communication is a relationship foundation, it’s strained with bipolar disorders. Communication gaps affect relationships detrimentally.
Medical reviewers say that in a marriage with a bipolar spouse, communication can support and stabilize the relationship.
Many research showed that partners of bipolar people were emotionally unwell. They felt helpless as they faced difficulties supporting a non-communicating partner.
2. Intimacy
During manic and hypomanic phases, bipolar spouses desire more sex.
Sometimes, the desire might lead to excess sexual activity than normal… like masturbating and watching porn even after intercourse with partners.
In extreme situations, people indulge in risky behaviors like sexual infidelity and unprotected sex.
The opposite happens during depressive episodes or due to some medications. There’s a lack of sexual contact. So, the other partner might feel rejected and undesired.
3. Parenting
A bipolar person who has children, during mood swings, might ignore the child and all family responsibilities. The other partner takes up all the responsibilities and burns out with time.
Moreover, explaining to infants their parent’s withdrawn nature is challenging. They might even find it scary.
4. Work
Depending on the severe mood swings a bipolar person’s performance will vary.
During manic episodes, they might judge poorly or behave impulsively. During depressive ones, they feel lethargic and give up on the job.
There’s always a fear of instability in the lifestyle.
5. Finance
Since bipolar people become impulsive during mania, they might impact household finance.
For instance, they might spend mindlessly, take unnecessary loans, gamble, or even lend out money thoughtlessly.
This can take a serious toll on your mental health too. You’ll have to tackle jobs, finances, and household chores simultaneously.
If this didn’t discourage you, glad about your strong bond. So, let’s know…
How to make Bipolar relationships work?
Summary
Show compassion, be considerate, and understand one another’s difficulties in the relationship to make it work.
Your bipolar partner might be afraid, feel guilty, or ashamed of their condition. You, on the other hand, feel resentful, anxious, helpless, and lonely.
To make a bipolar relationship work, be considerate, compassionate, and understanding towards one another. Both of you are in it together.
Learn to care and support yourselves and your bonds will deepen.
Ready to support your partner? Let’s take a quick ride…
How to help your spouse with the disorder?
In your bipolar relationship, if your partner experiences bipolar disorder, you might have a rougher time. But I’m sure, with your dedication and love, you can deal with the responsibilities.
So, take a quick glance over your support plan…
1. Learn it yourself
Research about this condition and try understanding it yourself. If you only listen to it from your partner, you might feel doubtful. Find medically reviewed journals to dive into the best info.
Also, to understand your partner’s feelings, a quick glance at verified resources can help. Find out what to expect along with the relationship.
2. Don’t confuse yourself
Know that bipolar disorder is a mental illness. Your partner is suffering from an illness. A bipolar partner or spouse doesn’t imply they’re bad. It’s not a trait, they don’t do anything intentionally.
Don’t blame your partner or use the “bipolar” label to down talk them.
3. Show interest in their experience
After reading enough sources, time to break the ice. Ask your partner what signs they experience. Know their patterns for future reference.
Learn the basic signs from them to pick on the hints. Separate regular behaviors and bipolar signs well. This can help you deal with the relationship better.
Know how they manage their mood swings so you can follow up. Also, know if they want some specific help during their episodes.
4. Be attentive
Don’t interrogate your partner, take some notes. Fix a time when you both are free. Sit down with a journal and copy down their symptoms and how they manage it.
If no experts are involved yet, the notes can work like patient history and other references.
Also, communicate honestly about how you feel without any disrespect.
5. Handle them patiently
If your partner is experiencing manic or depressive episodes, they might not cooperate with you. This can become frustrating on your part. That’s your cue to leave them alone for a while.
Don’t force yourself to communicate during these times. Leave it for another time… and there’s no point fighting over a sick person.
6. Plan family support during episodes
Does your partner withdraw from responsibilities during episodes? Does it impact your financial condition? Or do they also refuse household chores?
Plan something to support the family during these times. You can’t suddenly find a job, so get a steady one from now.
Also, if they tend to spend until bankruptcy, decide on how to safeguard the finances.
Consider making a separate account that your partner can’t access with their money. Do this consensually for your family’s safety.
7. Plan support during episodes
When things go downhill, how will you manage it? Choose an emergency service or care team for this one.
If there’s a way to calm down a triggered episode, learn it. Also, consider talking to close ones who handled your partner’s episodes better. You’ll feel reassured if you have a solid support plan.
8. Help them seek experts
Introduce your partner to experts and accompany them to their sesh. Support them following their treatment.
Sometimes your partner will feel like going off meds. Look out for those and though mentally taxing, always motivate them.
9. Promote a good lifestyle
Your partner also needs an active life to stay fit and healthy. Go out jogging together, get them nutritious food and ask them to get enough sleep.
Encourage them to practice hobbies, mingle with friends, and seek stress-relieving techniques.
10. Communicate with family members
Lastly, if you live with the elderly or children, it might be hard to explain things. Still, take the gist of your notes and help them understand the situation.
Your partner will do better if they receive everyone’s help.
This will affect you to some extent too, so learn…
How to take care of yourself all this while?
Your partner’s illness will take a massive toll on you. Most of the time, you’ll feel you’re living with a nagging child.
Precisely, a bipolar relationship/marriage is a rollercoaster ride for the unaffected one.
Before you step on the landmines, better gear up with these…
1. Sometimes, prioritize yourself
You have lots of responsibilities… but you must also be responsible for yourself. Your mental health matters more because your partner and your family depend on you.
Figure out good coping skills to deal with the situations.
2. Set healthy boundaries
Don’t accept all of your partner’s actions out of love. Set boundaries to protect your and your family’s stability.
For instance, losing money or quitting a job might not be acceptable. But you can excuse withdrawing from family and lack of sex.
3. Set strict consequences
During episodes, your partner won’t be in their right mind. They won’t listen to your boundaries whatsoever. So, spell out the consequences of boundary violations.
If they spoil your finances, quit jobs, or hurt you physically, think how you’ll deal with it. Perhaps, take control of the finances legally.
For instance, open accounts under your name only and ask them to deposit a substantial amount of money in them. If they become violent, leave the house until they’re done recovering.
4. Get yourself help
If you feel miserable and helpless, seek help for yourself. There are online support groups for couples with bipolar disorders. Or get yourself therapy instead.
5. Love yourself
During depressive episodes, your partner will withdraw. They’ll unintentionally be mean towards you. But that doesn’t imply that you’re wrong.
It’s the illness, not you, not them. Don’t beat yourself over the dynamics of your relationship. Indulge in self-love… It might be painting, dancing, cooking, or journaling.
However, you must always stay within limits. If anyone crosses the line, know…
When to talk about divorce in a bipolar relationship?
Everyone has limits, so do you. You can’t tolerate everything just because they’re sick. Sometimes, you can’t help but leave everything behind. Because your life and health matter too.
So, whether you’re the bipolar one or your partner, walk out of the relationship if you relate with any…
1. The relationship is abusive
Popular myth: Mental health patients are violent.
Most people with mental disorders aren’t violent. But if your bipolar partner behaves violently – whether they hurt you or inanimate objects – and you feel unsafe it’s time to walk out.
However, if you’re the bipolar one… and your healthy partner emotionally or physically hurts you. And later blame it on your bipolarity… that’s abuse too, so don’t tolerate it either.
2. The dynamics are consistently unhealthy
If your relationship dynamics are always unhealthy and you don’t feel loved or appreciated – whether you’re bipolar or not – that’s a red flag.
If your instincts say you’re unloved, that might be the reality. Why stay back if you’re always unhappy?
3. You’re emotionally and mentally strained
Do you feel emotional or mental pressure? Perhaps, your partner’s hurtful behavior took a toll on your emotional health. Or, you feel mentally taxed because of their impulsiveness.
If you live your days in fear of financial instability or other issues, it’s time to call it off.
4. There’s a stigma in the relationship
Being the bipolar one, does your partner treat you unfairly? Do they deny you medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment? Or do they deny that you suffer from it?
This is emotionally and physically damaging to you, so consider divorce.
5. You don’t support one another
Whether the bipolar or their partner, do you feel lonely in the relationship? Support is a compulsory factor to sustain bipolar relationships. Its lack consumes the strength of the relationship.
If you feel your partner or you don’t support one another, then there’s no effort. It’s better to leave a relationship without effort and support.
Wanna give it a last shot? Let’s know….
How to fix a bipolar relationship?
If you still have faith in your partner and believe things will work out. Don’t feel ashamed, I’m glad you still want to save this relationship.
It implies that you didn’t hit rock bottom. Come on, let’s give it one last try here…
1. Remember your roots
When you began dating, you loved your partner to the moon and back. Consider once again, did you really fall out of love? Are all the feelings gone? Do you not find this person loving anymore?
2. Recognize the illness
If you haven’t studied about this illness, it’s time. Understand what your partner does intentionally… and what are the signs and symptoms of their manic or depressive stages.
Also, communicate with people online in support groups. Know their journey to get some inspo.
3. Maintaining regularity
Psychotherapy and medications are the only way for treating bipolar disorder. If your partner hits you up with “Hey, I feel pretty good, I’m probably cured, let’s stop the meds”.
That’s your cue to encourage regularity.
4. And more regularity
The treatment doesn’t stop at professional support… bipolar people also need an active and healthy lifestyle.
Ask your partner to journal their mood regularly, get sufficient rest, skip on nicotine and other substances.
5. Check-in
Encourage your partner to have different trusted check-in people. At home, you can be the one. At the office and friends circle choose two more.
You three must harmless drop a mood review to your partner. Don’t attack them, use a neutral tone like, “You seem a bit angry” or “You look sorry”.
If luck wasn’t on your side, I’m sorry. Guess we must give up for good. Let’s know…
How to end the relationship with a bipolar partner?
The end of a bipolar relationship is your last gift to them… the last time you shower every last drop of compassion for them.
Breaking up with a bipolar partner isn’t easy… you gotta be responsible for the last time. So, let’s prepare the last surprise…
1. Don’t delay the process
If you know the relationship will end, then begin the process ASAP. Don’t take too much time because if you let it be, you’ll change your mind.
This will become a pattern and you’ll never end the relationship.
2. Consult with the other check-ins
Consult with the other check-in people. Tell them your breakup plan and reasons. If they belittle or dismiss abuse or serious relationship issues, and ask you to stay back… don’t listen.
If they wanna talk about the plan itself, consider making subtle changes without compromise.
3. Contact their therapist
Though their therapist might not let out important facts to protect the patient’s privacy, let them know. Connect with them in person or via mail and say:
“I am your patient, <name> <surname>’s partner. I’ve decided to break up with them. I want to keep you in the loop as their therapist because they’ll face a hard time.”
Unless they ask for more info, no need to spill.
4. Entrust others to keep an eye
Your partner might become suicidal after the breakup. Tell their loved ones to stay alert of it. Research shows a fourth to half of the people diagnosed with bipolar disorder have suicidal thoughts.
5. Prepare for the worst
Ask their loved ones to keep away any threatening items like sharp, pointy objects, ropes, or harmful chemicals. If they still attempt suicide, call 911 or other emergency services.
And of course, it hurt too bad to express, but we got you, we’ll soothe you. Let’s know…
How to heal yourself after a breakup?
It breaks my heart but outsiders will blame you, even if you suffered. They’ll ask “Why didn’t you try harder?” but I know it wasn’t possible. Such cruel words add to your scars… but they don’t care.
So, stop caring about such people, and begin your new journey here…
1. Deal with the guilt
After separation, you will feel guilty… for actions to protect yourself and actions you didn’t take. You might think
- “Wish I tolerated that more, then maybe…”
- “Wish I gave in to their demands more to save us”
- “Why did I prioritize myself?”
Pull yourself out of the guilt ASAP.
2. Know what attracted you
What did you love about them the most? Was it how kind and charming they were? Or was it the hot and cold temperament?
Learn about your inclinations and don’t let it be a pattern. If you notice you feel attracted to their mood episodes, gotta work on yourself.
3. Know what pushed you away
Note down the causes of the breakup. Those define your boundaries… so, the next time you begin a relationship, state your boundaries clearly before beginning.
4. Spend time for yourself
Whether you wanna party with loved ones or learn an outdoor sport… do whatever you love. It’s hard loving yourself after this… but that’s what you need the most.
Don’t depend on someone else to feel good… especially, don’t begin a rebound relationship.
5. Seek a therapist
When push comes to shove, seek an individual therapist. A therapist can articulate your feelings, notice patterns, help you understand your boundaries, and even suggest ways to lead a happier life.
It’s the best way if you can’t handle it yourself.
However, if you have the illness, better know some untold rules here…
What to do when you’ve the disorder?
Being the bipolar one in the relationship, you gotta put in different efforts than your partner. Those who need to know: Your illness is not an excuse to slack off. To the rest: Try your best to sustain the relationship.
Though you can’t deal with episodes well, follow these…
If you plan to propose any time soon, better show up with your diagnosis. Anything and everything can go wrong if you try to hide your condition.
Your partner will feel cheated and betrayed if you intentionally hide your reports. Let them know the truth before signing the big deal.
Also, you’ll save yourself the pain and guilt of the consequences of hiding the issue.
2. Or, as soon as you know
If you’re already in a relationship, don’t fret. As soon as you notice signs or get diagnosed with bipolar disorder, spill the beans. Relationships fall even when people hide minute details.
This is a crucial detail of your life and it’ll impact your partner intensely. So, come off clean and gain their support to fight together.
The bipolar depression and mania symptoms vary so much. Yours might not be commonly listed or embarrassing.
But don’t conceal such info… your partner can respond quickly if they’re aware of your situation. It’ll also help them prepare themselves and avoid feeling guilty unreasonably.
Otherwise, your partner might feel dejected and unwanted when bipolar depression kicks in.
4. Never arbitrarily stop the treatment
Mental illness isn’t a fever, you can’t pop three pills, feel good, and forget about it. It doesn’t work that way so don’t think about stopping treatment.
Unless it’s your health expert’s decision, never skip your routine checkups, medicines, therapy, or balanced lifestyle. All of that is important to protect yourself, your partner, and your life.
5. Keep the communication both-sided
If you know you need help, ask for it. Don’t wait for your partner to take action. Also, if your partner can’t catch onto a symptom, tell them clearly.
For instance, you feel depressed and don’t wanna join a party. Your partner unknowingly forces you to accompany them.
Tell them what’s happening directly rather than making excuses. Else your partner will misunderstand the situation.
Also, if your partner gives feedback about your mood, listen to them. Discuss it if your thoughts don’t match and understand well.
But wait, there’s more to make your relationship work. Follow me to know more…
Rules you should know about Bipolar Relationship
Bipolar relationships are hard both physically and mentally. Both partners try their best, but sometimes it just doesn’t work the way you imagine.
Here are some secrets to make your bipolar relationship work…
1. Don’t fight during an episode
For people with bipolar disorder, during episodes, a brain portion – the amygdala – becomes sensitive and gets triggered. This again results in flight-or-fight responses.
The person can’t coherently understand your words and unreasonable fights begin. Stop any conflicting conversations during this situation. Resume only when they calm down.
2. Treat them tenderly, like a baby
Bipolar symptoms make people throw tantrums. If you talk sense with an irritated child, will they listen to you? Most probably, not.
Your partner is the same, you can’t win the argument with a kid. Show them compassion and try to understand where they hurt instead.
3. Mistakes happen, move forward
You weren’t born with a compassionate heart or a wise mind. You earn it through the way with thousands of experiences in your life.
So, if anything goes wrong in your relationship… because you weren’t in your right mind. Remember: it’s okay, so learn and apply.
Even if it was a hurtful fight, let’s heal together… you and your partner in a world full of endless opportunities. Forgive, forget, and definitely restart.
4. Get love to give love
Can you quench someone else’s thirst when you don’t have water… when you are thirsty yourself? Love is the same… you need to fill your heart with love before loving your partner.
It’s hard to put yourself first when our loved ones suffer. But you gotta prioritize yourself if you want to protect them. So, do everything possible to fill your heart with this beautiful feeling.
5. It’s the illness, not them
During episodes, your partner mistreats you or completely cuts you off. It’s normal to feel hurt and frustrated. But is it really your partner hurting you?
For instance, a loved one got Covid, will you fight the disease or your partner because they might get you covid?
Hate the disease, not the person. Simple, right?
6. Accept your limits… You’re only a human
Don’t hate yourself for not making enough sacrifices. You’re compromising to save the relationship? That itself is a lot… don’t compete with another person who did more.
You have your own limits… so be proud of breaking through them. Be proud to nudge your boundaries in the name of love. But never think they’re suffering for you. It’s not about you at all.
7. Never excuse abuse
Build some rigid boundaries… some violating which calls the end. And you both must do it. It’s not just about being a bipolar person’s partner.
Both of you might develop abusive tendencies during episodic conflicts.
If either of you feels the relationship became abusive call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1800-799-7233 or 1800-787-3224 or call 911.
8. Remember: You’re growing together
Bipolar didn’t snatch away everything from you. It turned you into a more compassionate and understanding person. You fall deeper in love when only your bond with a sick person.
Not everyone is aware or can handle your partner’s whims. Sounds selfish, but your partner loves you more than anyone else… because you stay by them through rain and shine.
9. Magnify the positives
Remember the day your partner proposed? Or, the night when you sobbed in their arms to sleep? Do you remember their tears when they knew you’ll be there?
You got these precious moments all because you love one another. So, you can do it some more… until forever.
10. Hold on to one another
Though it’s natural in all romantic relationships, yours is special and unique. So, hold tighter and never let go. Even if you go to bed angry, hold hands… never let the thread of fate snap.
In bipolar relationships, sex might be a huge factor. So definitely know these…
Rules you should know about Bipolar Sex
A bipolar person’s sexual desires fluctuate with their manic and depressive episodes. During mania, their desire takes the better of themselves… and during the depression, sex is the last thing on their mind.
So, if you’re bipolar, follow these rules to protect your relationship and yourself…
1. Lookout for hypersexuality consequences
During manic episodes, you might feel more frequently aroused. The frequency might increase, you might try more kinky styles.
Or, you might exhibit risky behavior like cheating, one-night stands, multi-partner sex, or even unprotected sex.
If you cheat or get STDs after having sex with another, it’ll obviously result in a breakup. And for singles out there, you threaten your health also.
2. Don’t get addicted to sex
During bipolar depressive phases, people don’t want sex at all. Some, though, use sex like a medication to relieve psychological discomfort. They get addicted to sex not out of love or desires, but as a medication.
This is a form of addiction that can ruin your lifestyle and relationships.
3. Scale sexual desires
Think about what your partner goes through. When you suddenly have too much sex and then no sex at all, it confuses them.
So stop, control yourself… rather use your sexual urges like a scale to measure out your symptoms. Manage your bipolar relationship cycles with your extreme feelings for sex.
Though your sexual urges don’t always imply you’re in for an episode… it can be an indication.
4. Choose the correct med combo
Antidepressants lower libido and cause dryness in the genitals. Altogether, they can disturb your sexual lifestyle. However, you don’t need to compromise with sex for mental stability.
Medical science advanced lots and formed various drugs. But it’ll take some time to find out which works for you.
Talk to your therapist about your sexual life issues and work on getting better medicines.
5. Have sex responsibly
Manic episodes might make you feel excited and thrilled to try new things. But choose your sexual activities wisely. Don’t coerce your partner into anything uncomfortable.
During sex, the brain produces dopamine which makes you feel you’re in love. So, if you’re single, don’t confess because of good sex. You might let down both yourself and the other partner if you’re not serious.
But obviously, that wasn’t all to it. If your noggin is still running, don’t worry, we got you…
FAQs about Bipolar Relationships
Bipolar relationships are a controversial topic. Many believe in myths that since it’s bipolar, it gotta be bad. But that’s not the case.
A bipolar person isn’t a criminal or doesn’t always create bad relationship dynamics. Let’s get some more info here…
Medical research shows that couples with one partner experiencing bipolar disorder have higher rates of separations.
It might be due to the challenges the other partner faces. Communication, compassion, and support can help bipolar relationships.
Individual and couples counseling also helps to work in relationships. The mood episodes scar both sides emotionally. This is the usual reason for couples deeming their relationship unhealthy.
Whatever be your reasons, if you feel it’s unhealthy and you can’t stay back, end it.
Arguments aren’t the best way to communicate in relationships. So, learn to communicate your feelings and opinions honestly and openly.
Don’t put shade on one another’s feelings, respect the differences, and beat the root of the issue like a team.
In bipolar relationships, consider stopping a conversation and pushing it back for later when your partner is calm. Until then, ponder on the topic and come up with more productive solutions about it.
Of course, you can.
If you both can communicate honestly with one another, you already trust them.
If your relationship dynamics depend mostly on honest heart-to-hearts regarding all issues, that’s a great sign of being trustable.
However, if you’re worried about trusting them, again, express your concerns. Discuss responsibility sharing, coordination, boundary setting, and other desires from the relationship together.
Your and your partner’s openness define the base of trust.
Depends!
Your partner might have bipolar disorder and be unaware of it. It’s best to communicate honestly and respectfully during such situations.
If you feel something is off, let them know your concerns… not your doubts, judgment, suspicions, or disbelief.
Discuss if they noticed any mood swing. Reassure them you’ll be there whenever they need you.
A mental illness diagnosis itself can’t be a red flag. People diagnosed with bipolar disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, and other mental illnesses can have healthy relationships.
However, if your partner has bipolar disorder but doesn’t try to deal with their symptoms… that’s a red flag. There might be deep-seated issues and they need immediate help.
A word from ThePleasantRelationship
Undoubtedly, you’ll face troubles living with a bipolar spouse. But there’s no hard-and-fast rule that you’ll be unhappy. You and your partner write your own saga, so it entirely depends on you two.
Have faith that you’ll learn to deal with the roadblocks together. Your relationship might not look like others and that’s fine. Because others face issues you won’t wish to face.
As you both learn to manage bipolar symptoms together, remember that you’re of a kind. You guys’ efforts are an inspiration to other couples out there.
Focus on yourselves, one another, and your relationship… and everything will be fine.
