[angrymanic]

Has anyone gone through a seperation and got back together again after? If so how were you able to mend the relationship? How long were you seperated?

[Perna]

Sorry. I have only fought separations so when they happen, everyone is worn out and pretty sure the relationship won't work. Presumably one tries to fix the problems so one does not separate and if one can't do it then, why would it be different getting back together?

[angrymanic]

I was diagnosed with bi-polar 8 years ago and did nothing about it other than take meds. Recently I have changed my diet, quit drinking, joined a support group and readjusted my meds. I plan on continuing this new lifestyle and I'm hoping the changes will be recognized and accepted by my wife.

[Perna]

I assume your wife separated from you? If that is the case it will have to be her who is both convinced you have changed for the better and who is interested in trying again. If she met you before you were diagnosed and spent a lot of time with you then, she might have gotten something out of your being bipolar, as well as it hurting her, and, even if she finally decided to separate from the unchanged bipolar you, she may not know how or want to connect to the changed you, you will be unfamiliar to her?

My partner and I are somewhat separated, by that I mean living separate but still committed. I remain committed to her despite the difficulty and challenge bipolar presents.

As long as she continues to try and stabilize I will remain committed, the most difficult part is the anger and blame, the irrational conversations. I am hopeful someday this will all stabilize. I recognize that I need to be supportive and change my approach to this relationship. The main issue is the BP, but it creates many other issues that we are both faced with. I am working on myself and trying my best to understand being in this type of relationship, but on the same hand, making sure my needs are not disregarded because of BP and the fragile nature of everything that supports it.

Its possible, but not easy. While the person that is diagnosed with BP suffers each day- the partner experiences just as much difficulty. But if you love each
other and strive to be healthy, you can do it.

[angrymanic]

Thank you...that sounds exactly like my wife and I. I am bipolar and I have not taken care of myself the way I needed to. I hope the separation is good for, however it will be the most difficult thing I have ever done. I's just not sure how to get back into her life and continue our love beyond the issues that have been raised.

Its not easy and you need to accept responsibility for all the damage that has been caused as a result of the BP and fix the future together.