I can't give u much advice. I'm possible bipolar but don't know for sure yet. I will say that I think it's great that you came here to find out more and to support ur wife. It's SO IMPORTANT u do that - find out as much information as u can on this disease so that you can help her and for ur own understanding as well. I think it's nice that you'd be willing to see a therapist together and depending on the issues it may be a great idea. I know they always say it helps if the spouse is willing to come to therapy as well, at least sometimes. Just letting her know you'll be there for her to support and help her is awesome. Usually getting on the right meds helps a lot but the trick is finding the right ones which can be a difficult long process. Hang in there! Christal

Read Bipolar for Dummies, it's a great insight into to the disease. Your wife can't help her illness, and trust me it does cause havoc, especially if you aren't educated. I would definitely recommend Cognitive behavioral therapy. I also think that any avenue you take to get care will be essential for the health of your wife and yourself. Good Luck. If I can assist you further please let me know.

Im BP and having hubby come to the pdoc really helpped with him and understanding my BP. He now knows how to handle me, what triggers me and being able to support me. I suggest you attend the psych with her.

Goodluck:))

there is a family/friends of people with bipolar site on DS

I'm bipolar my partner is not
You should try reading the book "LOVING SOME BODY BIPOLAR" by Julie Fast. It will give you insight to what your dealing with and how to help her with out sacraficing your self as well. chk out the web site Bipolarhappens.com

Good point Rosie, the more informed the better. I am bipolar one and have had psychotic episodes, I can not be held accountable, but they are dangerous too. You need to learn how to control triggers. Do you know if your wife has been dx with Bipolar 1, 2 or rapid cycling?

wow your wife must feel so lucky ur willing to go to a therapist with her for her bi-poler AW

I just feel I need to stress that Bipolar can be
controlled, but there is presently no cure.
episodes are not entirely preventable. I am presently in a manic state called hypo-mania it often is a prelude to full blown mania, and needs to be addressed asap, as it can cause psychosis, a very dangerous state of lost reality.There is just too many complex components to the disease.

a couple of my family members have attended support groups/therapy sessions. Really helpful for all.

I can't stress enough that the more educated you become the less control the disease will have.

I ordered the book and I will check out the websites. Although I am willing to go to the therapist with her I am not sure if she wants me to go. I just have to take it slow and not push her...right.

Thank you all.

Very perceptive. I agree, be gentle. Just concentrate on getting yourself educated. I think that's your best route for now. I think you're so cool for trying to understand, it's a difficult illness. I would like to add that the illness is unbearable for me in regard to what upset it causes my family. It's hard to take, as a bpp. is not in control of their mood states. Best of luck, really!!

I know it is very difficult, my dad was bp, my oldest son, and so am I.

But please, please, do not consider yourself married to a disease.

You are married to your wife. She has a disease. You both need to work on it together, just like solving any other problem in your life.

It is also a progressive illness and unless they come up with a cure for bp. suffers and everyone connected to a person with bp, is in it for the long haul.