About a year ago I cheated on my boyfriend multiple times. We've discussed it at length, and he knows that it's the thing that I regret most in lfe, as I believe that kindness and consideration of others are two of the most important qualities to sustain.

There's no excuse for this, but there were circumstance that contributed to it: developing bipolar, bulimia, and ADHD simultaneously three months prior to the first incident; remaining undiagnosed and improperly treated for all three; excessive drinking on his part; and a weak/dependent connection between the two of us. Every time I was trying to get out of the relationship, and he kept hanging around....I felt trapped, but that's still not an excuse.

The only consolation that I can offer him now is that I wasn't myself then. Long time friends were very concerned, as I had completely lost the personality that they were used to. I'm completely recovered now -- doing intensive therapy, being very proactive in finding medication and lifestyle changes, and don't get that whirling sensation of mania that made me feel unable to control my compulsions.

We'd been broken up off and on until recently, and as we got to know each other better (and both got healthier) we can't keep away from each other, or get enough of each other... and for the past six months time I've not felt trapped, resentful, or helpless in our relationship.

So, finally to my question: has anyone experienced cheating, and what are strategies for rebuilding trust. He's in Europe right now, and while I KNOW I'd never hurt him again (nor do I have any interest in other guys) it's extremely hard for him to trust me. We might try couples counseling. Any advice?