Maintaining a Healthy Relationship When Your Partner Has Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a difficult, complicated illness. And like any illness, it can naturally spill over into your relationship. As couples therapist Julia Nowland noted, “Bipolar disorder can be an emotional roller-coaster ride for the couple, with many ups and downs that mimic the disorder itself.” But this doesn’t mean your relationship is doomed to fail. Having a strong and fulfilling relationship is absolutely possible when both partners are committed to working as a team and creating a supportive, encouraging and accepting environment, said Lauren Dalton-Stern, LPCC, NCC, a therapist at the CARE Program at the University of California, a specialty clinic and research facility that treats teens and young adults who are experiencing early emerging symptoms of a mood disorder or psychosis. This starts with getting extensively educated about bipolar disorder. “Psychoeducation is significant and one of the key components in the recovery and healing process that help decrease and in some cases, prevent the likelihood of relapse,” Dalton-Stern said. Every person with bipolar disorder is different, and how the illness manifests will vary, too. The effects on a relationship will depend on the severity of your partner’s bipolar disorder and whether it’s being effectively managed. And, of course, every relationship also has its nuances. However, there are some general issues that come up. Below you’ll find a list of challenges and suggestions to help, along with add...
Source: Psych Central - Category: Psychiatry Authors: Tags: Bipolar Disorders General Relationships & Love Self-Help Stress Bipolar Disorder bipolar disorder and relationships bipolar marriage Marriage Tips partners with bipolar disorder Relationship Tips Stressors treatment plan Source Type: news