What The Bipolar Spouse Needs To Know

By Laura Collins


It can be complicated when one is married to someone with bipolar disorder. This can lead to a break up because the bipolar spouse does not know how to handle the situation. They don't understand the disorder and it can be difficult to offer support. It is even more difficult to handle huge outbursts of anger, especially when one is more sensitive.

This especially plays a part when the person has just been diagnosed. They won't know how to deal with the sudden change in behavior. Sometimes, they themselves become depressed because they don't know what to expect from their husband or wife. This is where therapy is important because one receives a lot of guidance in this way. There are psychologists who are specialized in dealing with bipolar.

Research tells one that it is very possible to have a healthy relationship with a spouse that is bipolar. However, it is also something that you have to work on. It is not a piece of cake and one has to realize this from the start. This especially applies to the family where there are children in the home. They will have feelings of their own that become confusing, and they need to deal with this.

When there is a sudden change in behavior, it is necessary that the couple go to a professional psychologist. The sooner someone assesses them, the better. It can be really difficult to cope with this problem when it drags on for a great length of time. In fact, this is where it can lead to separation. When children are involved in the situation, one needs to make sure that they are not affected.

Often the spouse will become depressed as well. They need to learn more about the disorder and understand what their husband or wife is going though. This will help them to have more compassion and empathy. It will also help them to remain calm and realize that they will get over this phase. Sometimes it is a case of breathing and taking a step back when you find that you are going through a lot of stress.

Sometimes the love is not enough. There are certain situations that can lead to divorce. A couple may be aware that one partner was bipolar before they got married. This may not have affected the relationship. However, things always change during a marriage. There are other factors that one has to deal with, such as the finances and the fact that one is living closely together.

When the treatment program is going well, the marriage will also start to grow. However, one needs to work on this and realize that there are certain things that they should be aware of. There are certain things to take note of, which can lead to a relapse. For example, when a person with bipolar starts to become violent or aggressive, it is something to be aware of.

Sometimes divorce may be an option because of a spouse who simply can't handle these issues. However, it is necessary to talk to a good therapist before you rush off to the divorce courts. A lot of people feel that they must stick by their spouse who is bipolar, but when you have done all that you can and this is just bringing you down, sometimes a separation is an option.




About the Author: