My feeling is that your "sister-in-law" is wrong, but then people often are.

Thanks tommymott. That's how I feel. My therapist said she believes that I can have a successful relationship/ marriage with the right person. Just haven't found that person.

Do you have Bipolar II tommymott?

I think that it can be harder at times to be bipolar and in a relationship. But I believe Im in a very good relationship . He loves me and I believe he tries to understand my problems and is always willing to help. So I think its very possible to find a loving relationship just be honest and open keep yourself healthy and stay on your meds. I hope you find someone as wonderful as I did.

I have BP2 aswell but don't rapid cycle

I've also been with my hubby for 14 years.. sometimes its tough but I have to say we have a pretty wonderful relationship so I don't take much stock in what your SIL says

I'm diagnosed BPI with mania nicely controlled by lithium for 32 years. But BPII will fall within the milder swings of BPI so I have some experience with hypomania and depression, besides psychotic mania. Yes, I'm sure you can find the right person. My own feeling is to enjoy life and be ready when the right one comes along, and if they don't, life is still enjoyable.

Thanks guys! It's good to hear that Bipolars do have successful relationships. I know that it can be harder to be bipolar and in a relationship. I hear some of the things I say when in a mood and can imagine what it must be like to be on the recieving end. Since I was diagnosed I have told my good friends about the diagnosis, so they are warned. I met a guy. Shortly after we started talking I told him about the bipolar, so he knew that I may not seem like myself t times. He has been very supportive when I'm in a mood or push away.

It's great that you've had it under control for so long tommymott. I agree with your outlook! I have told my parents that I can be happy and enjoy life whether I'm in a relationship or not. I have great friends.

I have been with my husband for almost 10 years, married for 6 years. He is my biggest supporter and best friend.

I agree that you just have to find the right person, someone who is patient and understanding doesn't hurt either!

:)

That is absolute crap! But before I go off, yes, it can be harder in many ways for us in relationships, and for our significant others as well. Especially with rapid cycling, it can be challenging at times. But after 17 years in a wonderful, supportive relationship with one person (we were married legally last year but had a union ceremony after 2). My wife has been there every step of the way, standing by me in both good times and bad, as I've stood beside her as well. The key to a successful, long term relationship, at least for us, is a deep love, friendship, honest and open communication, and flexibility. Also, willingness to learn about this illness - she has read a lot, gone to doc appts with me, and also on her own. So, finally, support systems for both of you are very important. Good friends, family, therapists, a spiritual practice, hobbies, etc. help you both stay grounded and get you though the hardest times, together. And I have a number of "friends" here on DS that have been in long term relationships. So it's very possible and there's no reason why we can't have loving, supportive relationships like everyone else!

I've been with the same person for 20 years.

Randa,

I'm one of those who has a fantastic marriage to a nonbeeper. He is amazing and has educated himself on my illness and supports me 100%. He has assisted me with finding doctors, getting my meds, and making sure that, when I'm in a bad place, I don't do something permanent. He knows when he has to take control and call my doctor.

IT IS POSSIBLE.

your sister in law is wrong. Finding the right person that understands is the key.

I was originally diagnosed BP2 over 30 years ago and diagnosed BP1 this year. I dont much care what number I am, just so I learn to manage it to the best of my ability.

I have been married for 26 years, happily. It has taken work and consistent effort but I have a very loving and willing husband. We have both worked to maintain a good relationship by communicating very openly. He is one person I do not hide my emotions and feeling with. He is my rock.

I do believe we can have good, solid relationships with this disorder. Therapy has helped me a great deal along with reading every possible "positive" book I could get my hands on. Never say never and those who do can only visualize the darker side of life for whatever reason.....xo

I have a wonderful relationship with my husband since day one. Of course we have our ups and downs just like everyone else. But, I've also educated my husband on bipolar II, inform him of my meds, appointments, etc... I've lost a lot to bipolar, but there is no way I lose the opportunity to flouish in my relationship with my best friend to this illness!!! Neither should you.

I've been married to a wonderful, normal, non bipolar man for 18 years. It is possible to have a successful marriage and relationship. Hang in there!! Your sister in law is incorrect.

I am not bipolar 2, but bipolar 1 and I don't believe I will find the right person. As of this point, that is not my focus.

Many of my friends of bipolar 2 and none of them have had successful relationships.

There are some bipolar folks that have good relationships, but I just don't seem to know any of them.

Just don't give up!!!