Can Someone PLEASE Explain It To Me???

Can someone please explain to me what exactly a bp person feels when they are depressed then manic?  How long does each episode really last?  What should I be doing or saying to my bp husband when he is in one of these episodes?  Should I even be trying to say or do anything besides not reacting to his mean outbursts? 

 

He tells me he is feeling depressed.  I see he is depressed.  I leave him alone.  He tells me he is moody and I stay clear of him til he gets over it.  What else?  He doesn't ask for anything.  That's all he'll say.  Help!

Advice:

Leave him alone when he wants to talk to you he will. Seems unfair but so is living with Bipolar disorder. We don't like the way we feel it's not our fault, we can't help it. We tell you to leave us alone so you don't have to suffer with us. If you don't leave us alone it quickly turns to anger then when were done throwing the stapler at you or yelling at you that turns to guilt then were sorry but were also now feeling worthless and even more depressed. That is as simple as I can put it for you to understand.

Whyus,

No one really knows how long an episode lasts, it is different per individual case. An episode can last a few days to a few years, especially if left untreated.

I would give him some space when he asks for it, and give him help when he needed. There is really nothing you can do to make the situation better, please know it is not your fault.

The best thing you can do is for him to suggest he sees his pdoc with the changing of moods. The sooner he seeks help the quicker the road to recovery.

Olivia

Sounds like your doing alot.
Those times that he wants to be left alone take some down time and relax. Read a book, take a walk, do something special you like to do.