I've been in love with someone living
with bipolar disorder or manic depression
for four years. Dealing with the mood swings
isn't one of my strong points, but I do my
best to keep her positive on her downs and
out of trouble on her highs.
She has begun to accept the disorder and
we're managing, I guess. But at times, she
becomes cold and distant and often tries to
push me away because she doesn't want me to
be hurt, no matter how much I tell her I'm
not going anywhere. Truth be told, it does
bring me down, but I just keep reminding
myself to be strong for her. If I'm not,
who'll be there for her when she drops
again? I wish I could find a way to get her
to understand how much I care; but at this
point, I haven't found it.
After all this, I just want to remind
others not to lose hope. Through the
weeks in rehab and clinics, through the
fighting and reckless behaviour, keep hope.
At the end of the day, a moment with her
balanced is worth a life time of ups and
downs.
Any advice, please.
Vincent
Reply to Letter | View Comments
| Past Carenotes |
Name: Helen
Location: Milford, CT
Date: 07/17/2012
Time: 04:52 PM
Comments
Stop trying to convince her. The coldness and distance is
Part of the disease. You are already being rewarded. All
Who know you know the depth of your love for someone
Who cannot do without you. Your love and kindness does
Get through and a power greater than all of us sees and
Knows the depth of your kindness.
Name: tj
Location: wv
Date: 07/17/2012
Time: 09:24 AM
Comments
You have to keep in mind that her 'down' times are not a reflection on how she really feels about you or your relationship. I think you are a remarkable man, it's difficult to maintain a relationship when one partner has a mental illness. Find a local support group for you, keep on believing in your relationship and be there for her during her times of need.
Name: Cristina
Location: Plantation, FL
Date: 07/17/2012
Time: 05:19 AM
Comments
Dear Vincent, Thank you for sharing you seem to be doing the best that is loving her unconditionaly, but caregiving is hard work you need to take care of you first. I strongly suggest you find a support group in your area, they are wonderful I was very reluctant to attent to them and now I wish I had done sooner. Best of luck and my prayers are with you and your loved one.
