Today was a Huge day for me. As most of you already know, I was just recently diagnosed BP II only 2 weeks ago. I have been reading a book about it ,that my husband of course noticed but never mentioned. He likes to ignore problems and hope that they will just magically disapear. He has been in denial for years that there was something wrong with me.(We have been together for 21 yrs.) Huge financial disasters. He cannot stand the thought of anyone thinking that his life could be anything less than perfect. I on the other hand don't care at all what other people think of me.
On our way home from errands today, I made him stop at Dunkin Donuts and as we sat in the car with our dunkachinos ( yummy) I brought up the subject of my depression. In between crying and babbling I was finally able to say those words out loud- I am bipolar. It was such a relief to get it out. He didn't have too much to say except that he loves me and wants me to do whatever it takes to get better. He did ask if it was curable and I explained that it is manageable and that I need to find the right drug(s) that will work for me.
I want to thank all of you for all of your support,sharing your stories and advise. It gave me the strength that I needed today. I am incredibly grateful to be part of this online community. Joanie

[blueoctober]

roxiesmom;I'm glad you were able to tell your husband about your diagnosis. Keeping secrets from loved ones can be very stressful.

[PromisesToKeep]

Have you ever watched The Last Lecture by Dr. Randy Pausch on YouTube? He was a professor at Carnegie-Mellon and he delivered a lecture on his life's lessons as he was dying of pancreatic cancer. One of his quotes was,
"If there is an elephant standing in your living room, at least have the decency to introduce him."
In other words, acknowledge that which is difficult to mention, to talk about, to admit; in our case, there is no shame in being ill. In fact, by verbalizing that which occupies our minds, it negates the power that the problem is holding over us and empowers us to find and participate in a solution.
How often have we all heard the words, "Admitting it is the first step...""
I am so glad that you were able to talk with your husband and that he is willing to support you during this critical time. It is great that you have someone on your side. You are part of a team and there is strength in numbers. As for me, I am still looking for a frog.
hugs, Colleen
Princess, having had sufficient experience with princes, seeks frog!

PS... When you have some spare time, watch The Last Lecture... it is very inspirational. I will send links when I get up.

[PT52]

roxiesmom, I'm glad you were able to talk to your husband. I wish many good things for you going forward.