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Originally Posted by transient
I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder 6 years ago and was hospitalized after a week long manic episode. Untreated persons with this disorder make for poor relationships. My marriage of over 20 years will soon be ending, mainly because the disorder went untreated (unknown to me what it was) until the manic episode. My wife has been through the mill with me, and it's time for us both to move on. The kids are for the most part grown. The hurt in a relationship that can be caused by someone untreated with this is unbelieveable.
I was as guilty as the next person for labeling folks "crazy". Yes, the actions can be crazy like, but the person isn't crazy. As was so well stated earlier, bipolar disorder is a chemical imbalance in the brain and can be treated. It requires no use of alcohol or other illegal drugs that are usually used to "self" medicate. I go for blood level checks every 3 months to make sure my med is doing it's job.
The very first step in dealing with this is education. Lots of it. My wife has been unwilling to accept parts of my past that were hurtful to her. I don't blame her. I'm still in therapy and have hopes for a happy relationship down the road. It will take the right person to live with me, usually someone who is willing to educate themselves.
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Wow, this was an intense story... thank you so much for sharing. I want to ask you so many things, though it may take the topic off track... but oh well, I'll do it anyway.
What happened in those 6 years? I could understand if your wife left you soon after the manic episode, but why did she stick around so long if she was not going to be 100% supportive of your treatment (as it sounds) and stand by you till the end (I assume the divorce is her decision)?
You say that you will need someone who is willing to educate themselves; was your wife unwilling to do this, even after all that time? Why do you think that was the case? Was she willing at first, then unwilling over time, or was it just never in her capabilities to be able to get down in the trenches with you?
Feel free to ignore my questions (or send a PM) if they are too intrusive... but I would be very grateful for insight into what happened, if you are willing.