THIS. Your post rang so true for me, mrcherryred87. I'm the BP one (on meds), he's the one with depression issues (not as severe as mine, but still...) - and on no meds. I've been in a serious depressive mode, and he feels it is somehow on him, or that there is something he can do. There isn't. Still, he cares and asks. Before I was just saying, "nah, I'm just, you know...". Today he asked again, and if there was anything he could do. I had to just state it straight out. "No, but thanks. It's just my stupid brain." He knows he can't help that, and relieves the burden of it feeling like it's something he's doing or not doing. With BP, it really is that way. Our brains get highjacked. Situations can exacerbate it, but just letting her know you are there for her is best (IMO). It's so good to hear you say, "My girlfriend is the type that she would be willing to tell me outright if it was something I was doing (at least I think so)." That is major. Be glad of it.

Sure do! Here!
BP forum, Depression forum, there are no restrictions -- whatever you feel is most appopriate for the given question you have or the area you feel most in support of in that moment.

Please keep us posted, ok? There are quite a few of us here who are in relationships where more than one person is dealing with a MI. The good part is understanding. The trying part is triggering. (and I hear you basically saying this with, "but unfortunately as my significant other is having a difficult time with the bipolar my depression is kicking into gear.") It happens. But the relationship can still work, so try not to freak out about that too much.