My husband is there when I need him and has his own life when he wants it. We both take our time. When depressed I usually just sit and sob and prefer to be left alone or sit next to him while he plays his video games. He has hobbies and interests outside of my illness and I encourage him to participate and enjoy them. I try to handle my own business as much as possible. We do fight a bit when I'm manic.....it's banter and nothing serious. It used to be much worse because he mistakenly thought that arguing against my delusions and getting upset was an effective strategy to make me see the light. We learned about new communication techniques online and in family therapy and it's made a word of difference.

We are all unique with different needs depending on the nature of our illness and mood. What works for some, might not work for others. You are challenged with finding what works for you both. I hope my experience offers you something. (((Hugs)))