One of my go-to resources on mental illness is the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), and they have some great information on bipolar that you can read here.
As you know, "Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in a person’s mood, energy, and ability to function. Different from the normal ups and downs that everyone goes through, the symptoms of bipolar disorder are severe. They can result in damaged relationships, poor job or school performance, and even suicide. But there is good news: bipolar disorder can be treated, and people with this illness can lead full and productive lives."
What you describe as your wife's turning against you and the marriage in many ways is essentially the definition of bipolar. The good news, is that there is treatment for her, and resources/support for you.
Since your wife has had this disease for more than three decades, I do not want to provide you with simple lists of symptoms; you know them very well, I presume. The link above is just the beginning of what can explain the reasons behind bipolar, as well as the treatment options and clinical studies available. What treatment(s) has she already tried?
What can I provide you, as far as information? If you would like to tell me what city/state you live in (you can send me a private message as well), I can look up support groups and resources for you; it sounds as though you would like to connect with people and understand the "why" behind this from a social perspective, rather than my providing you a litany of website resources. I can do some research for you, as far as treatment options (traditional and/or alternative), clinical trials, support groups. I can provide more information about bipolar itself, but again, I assume you know most of this information already??
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Hi Lynn,
One of my go-to resources on mental illness is the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), and they have some great information on bipolar that you can read here.
As you know, "Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in a person’s mood, energy, and ability to function. Different from the normal ups and downs that everyone goes through, the symptoms of bipolar disorder are severe. They can result in damaged relationships, poor job or school performance, and even suicide. But there is good news: bipolar disorder can be treated, and people with this illness can lead full and productive lives."
What you describe as your wife's turning against you and the marriage in many ways is essentially the definition of bipolar. The good news, is that there is treatment for her, and resources/support for you.
Since your wife has had this disease for more than three decades, I do not want to provide you with simple lists of symptoms; you know them very well, I presume. The link above is just the beginning of what can explain the reasons behind bipolar, as well as the treatment options and clinical studies available. What treatment(s) has she already tried?
What can I provide you, as far as information? If you would like to tell me what city/state you live in (you can send me a private message as well), I can look up support groups and resources for you; it sounds as though you would like to connect with people and understand the "why" behind this from a social perspective, rather than my providing you a litany of website resources. I can do some research for you, as far as treatment options (traditional and/or alternative), clinical trials, support groups. I can provide more information about bipolar itself, but again, I assume you know most of this information already??
I hope to hear from you soon.
March 17, 2009 - 1:42pmThis Comment
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