[BP11]

I am 23 and I have Bipolar.Mostly I go through manic and hypomanic episodes..After that I go into mild depression in which the thought of being Bipolar patient is the main issue with me. With drugs the frequency has reduced.
I live in a society where most people believe that the solution to psychiatric disorders is getting married. It will treat your disorder (at least in part)...On the other hand I think it may worsen the situation for me and my mate as well..I don't think that getting support of a spouse will be different than my family's and friend's... I want to know, If someone have been through the same situation. PLEASE Share your thoughts even if you don't have been into the situation but have some opinion which may help me in anyway. Thanks in advance.

[fern46]

The first thought to come to my mind is definitely do not get married as a way to help manage bipolar disorder. I can see how having the support from a spouse could help, but that requires many factors to be in place first. I think some would even argue that being married makes their condition worse in some cases.

If you do decide to pursue marriage it would be beneficial to find someone who is willing to learn about bipolar disorder so that they can be as supportive as possible. It also helps if they know what to expect and what actions to take if things get out of control. Perhaps dating someone for an extended period of time is in order so that they can experience the ups and downs alongside you before deciding to marry.

I'm a traditionalist who believes in marrying for love. People marry for all kinds of other reasons and make it work. Take my advice for what its worth. I wish you luck in whatever you decide.

[Victoria'smom]

Relationships are sticky. They can be destabling even the best ones. I feel BP is a brain disorder that can't be "fixed" by changing circumstance.

[yellow_fleurs]

I don't see why going through the act of marriage would help a mental illness. Having support, in the form of a significant other, family, friends, etc. can be helpful for mental illness I think. I don't think you need to be married for that. Nothing wrong with getting married either, but getting married and really any relationship will not "cure" someone. Looking for another person to make us better is not really healthy in my opinion. I think with or without bipolar we all have to do the work to be as healthy as possible and then we will be best able to participate in a healthy relationship.

I don't think getting married would change anything. I don't see how changing the label from boyfriend to spouse, a ring, and some paper work would help anybody's bipolar disorder.

I'm not quite sure what to add to what the others have written above. I guess I'll reiterate that someone else can't "cure" or make things better FOR you. You have to work that challenge for yourself, but with a doctor, hopefully therapist, and preferably supportive family and/or friends.

[~Christina]

I agree with all the advice already given, you can’t “marry away” a illness.

Does you family traditions some how make you feel “forced into marriage?”

I’m glad that your meds are helping you but it’s very common that meds need tweeks here and there to help you stay as stable as possible.

[BP11]

Thank you all for giving another perspective of getting married and getting treated

[Wild Coyote]

I hope you will very carefully consider your options. As mentioned above, marriage is not a given treatment for mental illness. I also agree that while some types of marriage bring some stability to the situation, still others create a lot of instability. Proceed with adequate caution. Do not get married in the midst of a moodswing.
Best wishes!