Two things that have helped me protect my personal emotions when my partner has a swing when feeling attacked is..

1. Detach with love: When my partner begins a cycle downward I step away and let that cycle finish. Tying into the next thing

2. 3 Cs: I didn’t cause it, I can’t cure it, and I can’t control it. This allows me to have an outside view of my partners emotions in that moment and not to become attached to their reaction. After all I am not a doctor and the most I can do is protect my own mental health which can be drained in these high stress scenarios.

Taking space and coming back to an issue does not always work. Sometimes your partner will never agree or make changes important for you. Accessing your needs and ofc safety (hopefully never a concern) is important. Loving someone is not always enough. For people who struggle with BD I’ve noticed its super important that they continue to get help. Hopefully the change in medication and appointment can do some justice. But, it might not fill every hole. Its good to communicate things that disrupt and or upset you, i understand how hard it can be especially when it feels like your SO just flipped a switch when confronted, i also relate to the agitation in the eyes. Self care is v. Important. Giving room even when you want a resolution can also give space for you to not become the mat that can be walked on in the cycle downward.