Expert: Libby Bonner - 3/5/2008

Question
Is it possible for a bipolar person to adhere to a couple of carefully set boundaries in a relationship, or is this completely out of the question?

Answer
I would need much more information in order to help.  I assume you are asking about fidelity, but I would still need more info.

Your age, his.  How long in relationship?  Children?  Who is the patient - I will assume it is him.  What age a diagnosis?  Last time hospitalized?  What meds prescribed and does he take them?  Working at what, and full or pt-time?

Then I would enlarge your question - is it possible for a bipolar person to adhere to one? two? carefully set, clear boundaries concerning ____________________ ?   Adhere when stable on meds?  Adhere if off meds?  Adhere if stable but meds are starting to need  adjusting?

Underlying assumption, in addition, is that you and the patient both understand every implication of the boundaries, have agreed on the words used, have both willingly and fully agreed to set the boundaries.

I would be very glad to hear from you again soon.