People Don't Understand

[cindyluhu]

My husband's been bi-polar all our 18 yrs together. (It's been hell)  People see how sweet, helpful, etc. he can be and actually criticize me for being "too hard" on him. (His psych. thinks I do a great job) One even told him he was "henpecked".  If I tell him no, don't go banging on someone's door at 6 am, they tell him its perfectly okay. If I say no, don't eat the whole lb. of cookies, they give him junk food behind my back.  If I tell them he's bi-polar, I get replies like "Oh, nobody's perfect" or "Oh, that's just another name for depression". Any suggestions, please?  Thanks.

[creston1966]

I dont know why anyone who really understand all the dynamics and pain with this disease would ever "help" your husband in this way.  Maybe its possible that you are exactly the person he needed.  Someone to watch out for him and if needed push or pull this way or that.  You, not the other folks, have to live with him.  ONly you would really know best and know the real him.

Hang in there.  You've done your best, right?  Thats all you can do.  You should be commended for staying this long.  Most folks dont.


Creston

[Delusion]

With regards to your friends they really do sound like complete imbeciles if thats what their typical replies are. Sorry to say it but you know..

[azalea82]

Depression is certainly part of bipolar disorder, but the manic episodes can be equally damaging.  Encourage your husband to accept his diagnosis and take his prescribed medications regularly.  You might find additional useful information at nami.org.