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Wednesday, April 08, 2009 nay asks

Q: help with living with someone with bipolar disorder

I jsut found out that my boyfriend of 5 years have bipolar disorder which explains why lately we are constantly fighting over little things. Hes always cussing fussing and even at times hits me. I love him with all my heart and he always tells me he loves me and i truly believe that he does but with the constant agruements and the constant put-downs from i dont know how we can last. I love this him more than anything but i dont know what to expect from this disorder nor do i know what the symptoms are.  His family and i have urged him to go get help but he insist that there is nothing wrong. Sometimes he even seems as if he dont care. Is this typical of someone with bipolar disorder. what are some of the symptoms of bipolar disorder and how can i help him. How should i deal with his constant put-downs and constant agruements. If there is anyone with any suggestions i would greatly appreciate it

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Answers (2)
Jerry Kennard, Health Guide
4/ 9/09 7:14am

Hi Nay,

 

I'm curious how you know your boyfriend has bipolar? I'm assuming he's been diagnosed with this but perhaps isn't taking treatment? If this is the case it might explain the moods, but let me tell you that it does not explain or excuse hitting you.

 

I think you need to protect yourself from this and understand that bipolar is not an excuse or a justification for assault. If he has bipolar and isn't taking treatment, that may be part of the answer to your current problems. Whether it would solve your relationship issues is something else, but at least it might help rule out some of his behavior that helps cause friction.

 

I don't know your situation, but if you can persuade him to see his doctor or use someone else to help you, then do this. You asked about the characteristics of bipolar. You might want to check out these links on understanding bipolar disorder. There is also a useful forum to ask questions and get support.

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4/ 9/09 1:21pm

I urge you to read ALL of my own posts.  I was with someone for 4 yrs before we got engaged and moved in together... it wasn't until I lived with him that I noticed strange behavior, but I always forgave him bc I loved him.  We got married and it unraveled, and after we FINALLY got him diagnosed with BP, it was too late - he had already ruined our relationship over the past 2 yrs with the crazy episodes, constant fighting over nothing, picking apart everything, putting me down, and yes, some physical abuse as well. 

 

After you read my posts pls feel free to contact me with questions.  I would like to spare you from what I went thru, or try to help you thru it!

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By nay— Last Modified: 10/26/11, First Published: 04/08/09