[jpb4815]

How do those of you in relationships manage to keep it together with your partner? I have been with my wife for 21 years, we have two kids and I was undiagnosed for years. I think when I was younger she liked the mania, I was fun and then not. 6 years ago I was diagnosed. It has been a roller coaster for those 6 years, but I am finally stable after going inpatient 3 months ago due to a suicide attempt. Needless to say that did not help my marriage, we are going through a rough patch now.
My wife tells me that she is not sure if she still loves me, she feels "fine" about us and she wants more than that. We are in counseling and it is good so far. I think that there is some healing going on on her part, I still love her and am hoping that she will find her way back to me.
After our last appointment, she told me that she might need a support group for spouses of bipolar. I have looked for her and there is nothing in our area. How do you all help your partner cope with your illness?

[newtothis31]

I'm very touched by how much you want to support your wife. There may be some general bipolar or general mental health support groups in your area. You might want to check NAMI's website to see if there is anything.

[pirilin]

I'm seeing a pattern whereas diagnostic destroy lives instead of helping 'em.

My wife and have being together for 26 years. 14 of those with papers.
Third marriage for both. Six children in total. Three hers and three mine. None in the house anymore.
I married way up. Being practically a hustler all my life. No formal education, only guts and some luck.
She, being in the health care biz, sent me to the shink because I was depressed.
I think I've being frustrated with being a failure more than anything else.
My moments of greatness, even if there are many, last little. You learn to enjoy happiness in small bursts.
All that being said, my last run around was years ago.
I don't need more of a woman than I have. She takes me at face value, and so do I.
Living with her is not sugar either. TG she's always working and comes home tired.
The weekends are not paradise. She always has more than one mission for me.
That she knows I'll never accomplish. But keeps trying.
In the end, we are happy and love other. Or hate each other. Your call.
She will die next to me. Even if she's younger. No woman of mine is going to out live me.
I don't know what this thread was about. What I'm writing sounded appropiated at the time.
If it's not, please, excuse me. But I already said it.