The prospect of dealing with a lifelong, life-threatening condition can be overwhelming. The diagnosis of bipolar disorder, for example, can test even the strongest of foundations. The unpredictable symptoms and behaviors of a person experiencing bipolar disorder can shake up a relationship and may scare even the most supportive partner. These symptoms can include:. Not surprisingly, communication is essential to supporting your partner and your union. In her marriage, Elizabeth of British Columbia makes a point to talk to her husband about her symptoms at least once a week.
Dating With Bipolar Can Be an Exhausting Cycle of Intensity and Bailing
Bipolar disorder and relationships: Everything you need to know
If you are currently dating someone with bipolar disorder , you may struggle with a number of challenges like how you can support him or her while still caring for yourself. Knowledge is power, so learn as much as you can about your partner's disease. This will also be a healthy sign to him or her that you care. That being said, bipolar disorder is a complex disease. Try not to get too bogged down in the details.
Most of the time, living with bipolar disorder is uneventful. When that happens, it can interfere with my work life, friendships and—as you can imagine—completely sabotage my dating life. Bipolar disorder causes drastic and unusual shifts in mood, activity level, and energy. These symptoms can be particularly challenging when it comes to dating, especially early on in a relationship or when meeting someone new, she tells me. The fluctuating moods and periods of depression that are linked to bipolar disorder might also come off as flakiness and disinterest, and a potential partner might easily take these seemingly mixed messages to heart.
Sharing personal information brings people closer together. Verified by Psychology Today. Bipolar disorder is one of the most severe mental disorders a person can have. The lives of those suffering from it are hugely impacted by it.