Relationship issues - go figure?

After 19 yrs. of marriage, 15 of which have been struggling with BP I (diagnosed only about 3-4 yrs. ago), my wife has nothing but contempt in her voice. I was hypomanic my entire life and medicated through alcohol and drugs for many years before getting sober 23 yrs. ago. My current wife has never seen me take a drink, and I was very successful (CEO of sizable co.) until 15 yrs. ago. Very little employment since.

The idiosyncrasies I have that we're endearing in the beginning are just frustrating to her now. Today she left the room because I stated I prefer real butter to spread! Zero communication. We have 3 wonderful kids and I truly feel she's only staying until they leave home. I've had rapid cycling and as good as my psychiatrist is, she can only do so much through effective meds.

I've lost faith that I can stage a "comeback" at this point. She's never been into counseling much - she's a no nonsense statistician and kinda just thinks I should "buck up". I'm having difficulty establishing a plan to get better. Every time I make a little progress, I get knocked on my arse. Just don't know where to turn.

Hello Franco60,

Welcome to the Bipolar forum!

I am sorry to hear what you are going through. Communication is a key factor in any relationship. This breakdown may be affect the relationship between you and your wife.

I believe that you can comeback from this . Continue with your meds. Are you in counseling? If you are, continue with it as well. If not, please consider getting some. Meds and therapy both work together to treat Bipolar.

Someone with Bipolar also needs support. It doesn't sounds like you have any at home. Please know that we are here for you. You have our support. If there are any support groups in your area, you can also join. It will help you to learn about other people's experiences and how they cope with it.

Please feel free to check out our resources area where you will find useful info and coping techniques as well:
www.healingwell.com/community/default.aspx?f=13&m=350839

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) helped me. I use techniques I learned in DBT daily.

I hope things will get better for you. Please keep us updated on how you're doing.

Take Care

UA

I'm glad you are continuing to more forward. All the best!

We are here for you.

UA