Hi,

I dont' know about specifics for bipolar caregivers. I've never heard of such a thing. I think usually it is considered up to us to take care of ourselves unless we are a danger to self/others, then it is hospital time.

In general mental illness is not treated the same as physical illness by the healthcare world. Most healthcare providers do not even understand it. Most people in life will just brush off if you say, "I have bipolar and I'm struggling." They will just tell you to suck it up, leave it at the door. They do not realize it is a real illness with a physical cause (imbalance to the chemical systems of the brain and nerves.)

So, healing comes for me by wanting to heal. I have to want it. No one can force me. If I dont' want it, I won't heal. It's my job to take care of myself. I have a husband and small kids. It isn't their job to take care of me. I have to do it. This is what I've learned in my journey. Not even my dad took care of me. No one. It is incredibly lonely and for a long time I looked for people who would take care of me, even when I didn't know I was bipolar. But I learend that is not going to happen. If I'm going to get well, I have to do it. And I have to remember there is no cure. And I must understand that my actions are potentially able to hurt others. I tend to attack only myself, though.

Anyway, I'm sorry you're having difficulty with your husband.