How to Cope With a Bipolar Spouse

You're both happy together and spend great time. But sometimes your spouse is depressed and blames you in every problem that your relations face. Their statements have no sense, although verbally you understand what your spouse is saying. The things they do look immature and you're afraid that it's the end of your relations. And suddenly your spouse's mood swings again and everything is great. You're happy together, but the thoughts about the abuse never leave your mind and heart.

Every couple has its ups and downs, let's face it, but they are not caused by a mental disorder. If you really think that your spouse might be a bipolar, you need to consult a psychiatrist, once a diagnose is clear, it makes everything simple. It's not your spouse, it's their disease.

The divorce and abuse rate in couples, where one of the partners is a bipolar is much higher than in “normal” couples. And if you're married to a bipolar and don't want to lose this person, you need to know how to deal with their mood swings.

Build a support group. Having people who can support you is always helpful. Join a support group for members of bipolar patients. The group will help you a lot, but if you can't do it, then find support in your friends.

Try to get away. Going on a separate vacation is great for your sanity. You spend some time without your spouse's mood swings and let yourself relax. In case your can't have separate vacation, then just try to avoid your spouse, when their mood is out of control. Stay away, let your spouse come oneself on their own.

Taking medicine is important for your spouse. They ensure that your spouse doesn't have manic and depressive episodes. However, during the manic periods it's very difficult to convince your spouse that they need it. Whenever your spouse refuses taking the medicine, leave them alone, for instance, spend a night at a friend's house. Come back only when your spouse gets your point.

There are some triggers that cause the mood swings, and you have to watch for them. You should use the triggers to maintain the mood that you and your spouse both desire.

Whenever your spouse is in depression, it doesn't mean that you don't have to talk at all. Your spouse and you still need each other. You should communicate even during the mood swings, because it's critical for your relations. Ask your spouse what they need to make them get into the right mood again.