In the U.S. we have organizations that educate loved ones about mental illness. I met a lot of patients who said it made a huge difference on their family members' understanding. Maybe you could look for something similar in your area.

As a woman, I would say that she might be feeling helpless and maybe even rejected if you haven't been as social or have been sleeping when you might otherwise be spending time with her. Maybe when you see your pdoc you could pick up some pamphlets or even ask if (s)he has any passages in books that you could photocopy. Those kinds of materials sort of legitimize the situation. Give them to her and then have a gentle conversation. Explain what you will need from her and ask her what she needs/expects from you in return. Explain that she can help but she can't fix this, that what is happening is due to the chemicals in your brain. It's not laziness or lack of willpower. Then I would make a pact: we will love each other and respect each other as we get through this, and we will communicate about our concerns and not allow any resentment to come between us.

I think it's awesome that you are so considerate of her even though you're not feeling well ��