How Does Bipolar Disorder Affect Relationships

Navigating relationships, no matter what kind, can be challenging. However, chronic mental health conditions like bipolar disorder tends to bring their own set of hurdles. Bipolar disorder can be very unpredictable, with a constant shift between euphoric moods followed by deep, unusual sadness. Over time, it can become harder and more overwhelming to keep up with your partner if they are coping with Bipolar Disorder. 

However, if your partner has bipolar disorder, it is possible to manage the condition very well and have a healthy relationship. With quality treatment and care, they can have long-term, meaningful relationships and rich personal lives. 

Have you been struggling to understand the signs of bipolar disorder in relationships? Or, wondering how bipolar disorder affects relationships? We're here with all the answers you need.

Also read: What is Bipolar Disorder - Signs, Symptoms, Causes, and more

Does bipolar mood disorder make relationships difficult?

Bipolar Disorder tends to have two kinds of episodes, which are as follows: 

• Manic Episodes: During a manic (or 'euphoric mood') episode, individuals are not just happy, they can get easily distracted, have inflated self-esteem, and struggle to make good decisions. 

• Depressive Episodes: When going through a depressive (or, 'low mood') episode, they lack the energy to complete everyday tasks, have trouble concentrating, and can even experience thoughts of self-harm or suicide. 

Besides changing moods, additional symptoms of bipolar disorder can make daily life more challenging. It is important to note that there are several types of bipolar disorders, these are:

• Bipolar 1 Disorder: Characterised by at least one manic episode, which may be preceded or followed by a major depressive or hypomanic episode. 

• Bipolar 2 Disorder: Characterised by a major depressive episode followed by a hypomanic episode. However, individuals do not experience a manic episode.

• Cyclothymia: A chronic form of bipolar disorder characterised by at least two years of hypomanic symptoms followed by depressive symptoms, which do not meet the criteria for a major depressive episode.

• Other types: These refer to bipolar disorder symptoms that are induced due to other medical conditions or drugs. 

Hence, maintaining a relationship with someone diagnosed with bipolar mood disorder goes beyond dealing with mood swings and requires empathy, compassion, and understanding. 

Also read: What is it like Living with Bipolar Disorder

How does bipolar affect relationships

Understanding the symptoms of this chronic mental health condition is key to maintaining a healthy relationship. However, some common hurdles that you may experience are:

Difficulty in building trust

Based on previous experiences, your partner may find it difficult to disclose the details of their diagnosis. They may either hide their symptoms or not feel up to discussing how it affects their lives. Unfortunately, their hesitance can make it harder to build trust in your relationship and keep you from opening up to your partner as well. 

So, what can you do? Be patient and show that you are willing to learn more about their condition. If needed, don't hesitate to discuss your concerns with them.

Managing the highs and lows

Keeping up with your partner's changing moods can be challenging and make you feel on edge. Without a clear understanding of their condition and their needs, it can be even harder to know what to expect. But, how can you support your partner through their symptoms?

Besides understanding their condition, it is also important to be supportive of their treatment. Often, symptoms such as inflated self-esteem and optimism can make individuals with bipolar mood disorder want to skip their treatment or medication. However, it is important to ensure that your partner stays on track, so they continue to function in their daily life. 

Maintaining intimacy

Changing emotional states also means a change in your partner's libido. During a manic episode, increased libido or hypersexuality is more common, whereas during depressive episodes your partner may not have any desire for sex. Unfortunately, manic episode symptoms can also lead to risky sexual behaviour and sometimes, infidelity. 

While their hot and cold reaction to sexual intimacy can seem like rejection, it is crucial to remember that it is a symptom of their mental health condition. Quality treatment and medication can help to some extent, but some medicines may also result in lower libido.

Keeping up with finances

No matter what your partner's job is, it can get stressful at times, which can exacerbate their symptoms. Unfortunately, this also means that they may have trouble holding down jobs for long periods, affecting their finances. 

Uncertain finances can add stress to any relationship. Besides planning ahead, it is also crucial to encourage your partner to be consistent with their treatment and check in with them as much as possible. 

Also read: Relationship Counselling 101: Can Couples Therapy Fix Your Relationship?

While it is important to stay supportive of your partner's needs, you should also make time for yourself. If you feel overwhelmed, don't hesitate to seek professional help such as online therapy or couples counselling.

All relationships are hard work and require effort. However, with consistent work, you can make your relationship thrive. 

Source:

1. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/mood-disorders/bipolar-relationships-what-to-expect 

2. https://www.talkspace.com/mental-health/conditions/bipolar-disorder/relationships-dating/ 

3. https://www.healthline.com/health/bipolar-disorder/partner-break-up 

4. https://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/features/bipolar-romantic-relationships-dating-and-marriage