[angrymanic]

My wife has finally had enough of my mania and severe irritability. She has asked me to leave the house to figure things out. I was diagnosed in 2005 and was on lamictal and rispidal for 8 years always telling my pdoc that things were fine...they obviously weren't. Recently I have changed my meds to include lithium, I've been seeing a therapist and recently joined a support group. Maybe too little too late but has anyone else had a difficult time coming to terms with the disease and if I'm able to survive the separation without full blown mania, is that considered a step in the right direction? Sorry for dragging on but a lot on my mind....

[Dylanzmama]

I'm so sorry you have to go through this...is it a good sign that she just wants a separation and not a divorce? Stay close to supportive people and tell your pdoc the truth. I know it's hard to. The last time I was COMPLETELY honest with one, he recommended ECT.
Good luck!

[gayleggg]

Yes, I think a lot of us have had trouble at one time or another accepting the disease. Sorry to hear your wife wants a separation. But I think you are making a lot of positive moves and hopefully your wife will see this. Anytime you can avoid full blown mania it's a step it the right direction. Wishing you well.
Gayle

[angrymanic]

Thanks for the support. I'm hoping she sees the steps and I hope the process sticks around as I typically have tons of motivation for a few months then kind of lose it all...I love my wife and she makes a good point to say if you loved me the way you say then you would have began the process years ago. I couldn't agree more, however, it may have taken a life changing situation to finally get the help I need.

[Victoria'smom]

I don't know if your working but is it possible to do intensive out-patient while working with your therapist? It's probably a good idea to get a marriage counselor at this point. She may want to get a therapist herself.

if you loved me the way you say then you would have began the process years ago I think this is an unfair statement, sorry. I understand how hard it is to deal with a partner that doesn't seem to want or feel they need help. I also understand the difficulty that comes with accepting the dx., asking for help and continuing treatment. I wish it was easier for others to understand.

Was there a particular incident that cause this decision?

[middlepath]

We all have our own time-frame for accepting and addressing BP. The fact is you are doing what you can right now! Good for you! All you can do from here is just work on you and make sure your wife knows that the love you have for her is enough to inspire you to work toward becoming as stale as possible. I am sorry you are going through this.

[middlepath]

*stable* as possible, not stale. ugh.

[angrymanic]

Just my typical manic self really...didn't notice the warning signs and said some inappropriate things...which unfortunately is my MO when I peak in my mania...she simply threw her hands up and said I'm done. We do however talk all the time especially because of the children and recently started to wear her ring again so maybe she is taking notice of my attempts