Falling in love with the right person can feel like you have won a lot of things in this life. However, it can also be problematic especially if you start to notice that the one you love and care for has been hiding a secret from you. At the same time, you may also find yourself in a situation where your partner suddenly turns out to be someone who is not. It can be heartbreaking if you do not know how to handle a situation – especially if you are already planning to start a family.
One of the challenges that may come your way is finding out that your partner has a bipolar disorder. It is an issue that you need to consider seriously so that you can identify the proper steps to take. Keep in mind that breaking up with the other person is not the only solution. Sometimes, you can try to save the relationship by doing these things:
Read About Bipolar Disorder
The first or initial thing that you have to do is to keep yourself informed about bipolar disorder. As much as possible, be knowledgeable about the topic. Fortunately, there are several resources that you can use to make this happen. Feel free to read journals, books or even online articles that talk about the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder. At the same time, you must make an effort to read about medications or treatments for the said psychological problem.
Understand Your Partner
Once you are aware of the signs and symptoms of the illness, it will become easier on your part to become more understanding to the other person. As early as now, start to remind yourself that your partner’s mental condition probably causes whatever attitude problem he has. It means that he may do something that is contrary to what he intended to do. The reality is that bipolar patients tend to perform an act involuntarily. Their judgments are usually clouded. According to Jeanne Segal, Ph.D. “People with bipolar disorder are often reluctant to seek help because they don’t want to feel like a burden to others, so remind the person that you care and that you’ll do whatever you can to help.”
Be More Loving
Now is the time to let your partner know that you are willing to stay despite his condition. Keep in mind that you are one of the persons who is keeping him feel loved. As such, you must see to it that he will always feel that affection and admiration. The way you treat him will make him realize that he is not a bad person. Even during the days when his mood swings have become impossible to deal with, it is still imperative on your part to show your true and genuine love. In relation to that, Valerie Acosta, LPC says, “Many people have never met someone else with bipolar disorder, and learning that they are not alone or the only person dealing with the challenges of bipolar disorder can be extremely comforting and helpful. Seeing peers recover, build healthy relationships and obtain their goals and dreams is most powerful.”
Talk To Each Other
Engage in meaningful conversations with your partner. This idea is also supported by the statements of Trudi Griffin, LPC, MS “ If you think that someone may be suffering from bipolar disorder, then you should say something. When you approach the person, make sure that you do so from a standpoint of concern and not judgment. Remember that bipolar disorder is a mental illness and the person cannot control their behavior.” The primary goal is to let him feel that you are happy with the relationship even if there exists certain problems. At the same time, you can also be honest by telling him how his bipolar disorder is making you feel bad. However, it is best to learn how to choose the right words to ensure that he will not be offended with your words. Take note that the way you speak to the other person can hurt him if not done correctly.
Be A Good Listener
Another important thing that you have to keep in mind is that talking and listening are two different things. Both comprise effective communication, which is why they are essential in any relationship. Remember that you must become a good listener to your partner. The primary objective here is to make yourself available whenever he needs someone to talk to. Let him know that your doors are always open whenever he wants to discuss something. Never make the mistake of making him feel that he is alone.
Avoid Stress Together
The symptoms of bipolar disorder may become severe if stress is present in the relationship. As such, both of you must avoid all the stressors in your lives together as a couple. If possible, keep yourselves away from people who are only causing problems in your union. At the same time, avoid arguing or fighting over the same things over and over again. These unfortunate events can trigger your partner to show the negative side of his personality. If this continues to happen, you may end up having irreconcilable differences.
Conclusion
Loving someone is both exciting and challenging, which is why you must know the proper actions to take. Remember that this life is too short to waste your time on the wrong person. If you genuinely love your bipolar partner right now, everything is going to be okay as long you follow the tips and tricks mentioned above. Keep faith in the relationship and with each other. Do not give up right away just because you experienced a bump in the union.
If you believe that your lover’s bipolar disorder has become more complicated over the years, be sure to get in touch or talk with a psychiatrist or therapist. Contact the right professional so that you can get immediate help.