Marriage and Supporting Your Partner With Bipolar
All couples have challenges. But balancing a marriage while dealing with bipolar disorder can present unique problems. Luckily, there are some practical ways to navigate and overcome these issues.
How bipolar disorder impacts marriage
Here are some issues you may face when you or your partner has bipolar disorder:1,2
- Changes in intimacy: During a manic phase, your sex drive may be higher. This means you could initiate intimacy or use porn more often than usual. When you are in a depressive phase, you may completely avoid sex. This behavior can make your partner feel confused or rejected. This is especially true if you had a high sex drive during a recent manic phase. A lower sex drive is also a side effect of many drugs used for bipolar disorder.
- Impulsive behavior: This can include spending too much money or doing risky things like having unprotected sex or cheating on your partner.
- Fear of abandonment: You may worry that your partner is going to leave you, especially when you are in a manic or depressive phase. This fear can make you act overly attached, which can bother your partner.
- Lack of trust: Bipolar disorder symptoms can make it tough to trust your partner. You may think your partner is cheating or lying, even without proof. This lack of trust can create big problems in your relationship.
- More arguments: You may find it hard to talk to a partner with bipolar disorder. This can create misunderstandings that may lead to arguments and conflicts in your relationship.
Navigating a relationship with someone who has bipolar disorder
Being in a relationship when you or your partner has bipolar disorder can be challenging and confusing. But there are ways to have a happy and healthy marriage. Here are some tips:1,3,4
Practice self-care
Being married to someone with bipolar disorder is about more than just helping them manage their illness. It means also making time for your own physical and mental well-being. Find what works for you, whether it is talking to a therapist or going to a yoga class.
Go to couples counseling
Counseling could play a big role in helping you navigate the challenges of bipolar disorder. During this process, you can understand that your or your partner's hurtful behavior is connected to an illness. You may be able to find forgiveness and create boundaries with your partner.
Make your own friends
In a relationship, you may share friends. But having your own circle of friends adds extra support. It also gives you a listening ear when you need advice or need to just talk.
Stick to a treatment plan
Treating bipolar disorder usually involves medication and talk therapy. To help your partner manage the illness, encourage them to follow their treatment plan. This includes regular contact with their doctor(s) during therapy sessions, regular checkups, or checkups when they have concerning symptoms.
Separate your partner from their illness
Your partner is more than bipolar disorder. Try to remember why you fell in love with them and understand that a mental illness does not define the person living with it. Show compassion toward your partner and continue to communicate with each other for a healthier relationship.