If your partner or spouse has bipolar disorder, day to day life can sometimes be a struggle. Sometimes, you see the beautiful person that you fell in love with. Other times, however, your partner’s behavior may become erratic, they may have fits of rage, or they may sink into depression for weeks at a time. Living with someone with bipolar disorder brings with it it’s own unique challenges.
Expect the Cycles
If your loved one is on medication, it can be tempting to think that everything is “all better”. However, they will likely still experience mood swings and cyclical ups and downs. The swings will be less dramatic, but they’ll still be a part of life. It’s best to be prepared for the occasional swing of mood, and to ask your partner when they’re well what you can do to help them when they’re sick.
Make Necessary Adjustments
Bipolar disorder isn’t a fun illness to have. Your partner may not enjoy things that they used to, may not have the energy to prepare meals or clean house sometimes, and may be frustrated by their inability to cope with the demands of work, school, or parenting. Help them make small adjustments wherever possible. Maybe they can try working from home, cut back their hours, or take some time off. Can you prepare a few meals in advance and freeze them for “down” days? Help your partner think of ways to cope with a mood swing before it happens.
Develop a Support System
Living with someone with bipolar disorder often means taking on the role of caregiver from time to time. This can be exhausting, and it’s important that you surround yourself with people who understand. Spend some time building yourself a network of friends and family who understand what you’re going through. You’ll be grateful for the help when you need it most.
