From my personal point of view, your description of your wife sounds like a well meaning but overly simplified version of her actual problems. I don't know why I get this feeling, but I do. I'd say there is certainly something going on but I'd never be reckless enough to make any determinations based on what seems to be a tiny part of a bigger issue. It could be so many things. How an illness manifests can be very personalized. Most people have issues they should work on, including those with Bipolar, so likely she's dealing with a combo of several unhealthy varieties.

There are often ways in which family members can nudge or shove a person in the direction of seeking help. How this is done can be very individualized and often needs to be tailored to the individual. Have you considered getting therapy yourself to get support and possible advise on ways to handle or cope with this?