Relationships

[lostoneself]

I recently just got out of a 3 year relationship.  Two years ago i was diagnosed as bipolar.  the first year of being diagnosed was ok, but when we started getting more serious I realized that he didn't know what being bipolar meant and how to support/deal with me.  so i asked him to learn about it and even to come to see my Dr. so she could help him and us.  Well I had a really hard time while he was away at school and i know i was very very paranoid and quite honestly a pain, which strained our relationship and lead to its end.  So, my question is, is it possible for me to ever have a lasting relationship being that i am bipolar?  Can people truly understand that bipolar doesn't define who the person is, and that there is more to a person than that?

[lostoneself]

Thank you for your resonces.  I never would have thought I would join something like this but I am realizing that it is nice to know that I am not all alone and that there actually are some that understand.  So thanks again.

[Minty737]

Dont beat yourself up about it, there are definitely some people who just cannot understand mental problems no matter what you do, even if it comes from the mouth of professional. I have had problems with relationships in the past, but then I have only just been diagnosed and started meds, so Im hoping things will go better now. Of course you can have a meaningful relationship with Bipolar, in fact many people on this forum do have them.

It will always take time to show people that being bipolar is not all you are, it is human nature to judge outwardly first, and then grow to know someone. Many people are willing to get to know you past that initial phase too.

In response to monkeyc- i know i would find myself impossible to live with in my irritable times, hehe.

[monkeyc]

Some can and some can't - Im married and my wife struggles with some aspects of understanding.  Its all an education process and  its not always easy.  I would imagine a long distance relationship would be harder.

But yes to answer your question they can and it also takes patience and understanding from our side as well - after all would you find you easy to live with all the time ?