Follow-Ups to Answer from Expert Joyce A. Anthony

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Lisa wrote at 2007-01-17 15:39:28
My partner is bipolar. We have been together 4 years.



In the beginning of our relationship he was on benefits and slobbing about at home. It didn't take me long to lay down the law. I told him what I expected out life and out of our relationship. I gave him an ultimatum - become a MAN or leave me alone.



I am glad to say he has been working full-time for nearly 1 yr (earning a salary equivalent to mine! grrr). He has so much more self-confidence now. He can make decisions without much umming and uhhing. He is now the man I always knew he could be.  



Having said that, however, he needed so much reassurance and positive praise and encouragement throughout the process. Sometimes I wanted to rant and rave at him for being so needy. It was a long road, but we finally got here. It was not an easy road to travel at times. He was verbally abusive when he felt his back was against the wall. If you can ride out the bad times eventually the calm will arrive. I guess it boils down to whether or not you have the energy. If you don't, that's fine. Nobody will judge you as uncaring. Most of my friends thought I was bonkers to even start a relationship with a bipolar. I proved them wrong though!    



Take Care



Lisa

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