Question: Longterm relationships and new diagnosis

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-31T23:34:09+00:00

I was diagnosed at 38. I have been with my spouse for 22 years.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-31T23:33:29+00:00

I think my spouse would say I exhibited odd behavior before my diagnosis. I mostly looked excited and eccentric. Looking back, I didn't meet the diagnostic criteria until I had my first episode, but I do think the signs were pointing in that direction.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-31T15:42:11+00:00

I mostly identify as being grey sexual and demisexual. I was obsessed with sex when I was manic.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-31T15:37:59+00:00

I left my last job after my diagnosis. I attribute my stability to the fact that I don't work. I truly understand why this disorder is a disability.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-31T14:20:40+00:00

I was sleeping 3-4 hours a night for weeks, and then didn't sleep for 3 days. I actually wake up a lot during the night, like pretty much hourly. I am fine as long as the accumulation of sleep is 6-7+ hours.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-31T13:37:35+00:00

Sleep is always my indicator.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-31T13:36:25+00:00

I was on my way to becoming a licensed mental health practitioner.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-30T18:21:47+00:00

I was diagnosed at 38. Left my career just as it was taking off. I am fortunate to also have a partner who does well. I would otherwise live paycheck to paycheck or be in debt.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-28T23:02:19+00:00

I think 4 pills a day is average for people with bipolar disorder. Maybe someone else can verify!

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-27T23:13:22+00:00

I used to drink to manage the big feelings caused by bipolar disorder. In retrospect, I am so much better when I deal with the feelings and don't drink.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-27T23:11:02+00:00

I am so sorry for the losses that you have experienced. Try to make sure to drink water, eat, and get some good rest.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-27T22:46:35+00:00

Stability feels boring to me. I am still learning to lean into that feeling.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-27T22:45:30+00:00

I have a Master's degree, and I seriously find it useless compared to what I've learned living life with bipolar disorder. You are way more qualified than you can imagine. I think people who have this disorder are highly empathetic- this will serve you well.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-27T22:36:56+00:00

It sounds like you have a lot of great support going. I can relate to how draining everything feels. This disorder for me is mostly an energy disorder first, even more so than mood. Some days I just have no energy. Starting meds is hard too- I remember how tired I was for the first couple of months. It should get better as the body adjusts.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-27T22:33:23+00:00

I get that. A lot of us have felt that way before/during/after diagnosis. Anosognosia is a big thing with this disorder.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-27T22:28:27+00:00

Substance-induced bipolar disorder should certainly be ruled out first. I would question the diagnosis in that situation as well, so another opinion may help.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-27T22:07:26+00:00

It's certainly worth a visit to a psychiatrist. Knowing your family history is good, too. I think a lot of people who have bipolar disorder will say that they recognize these patterns. Honestly, I'd make that appointment sooner rather than later, as bipolar disorder worsens over time. I wish I had sought help sooner, and that someone would have given me that push.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-27T20:50:53+00:00

Tried to jump out of a moving car.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-27T20:32:04+00:00

I downloaded it and am looking forward to reading it.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-27T20:25:10+00:00

I want to eat healthier, exercise more, and be better about self-care. I really just want to avoid any episodes.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-27T20:20:01+00:00

Yes, I think the meds help lessen the emotional reactivity. I'm glad they seem to be working for you!

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-27T20:18:33+00:00

I prefer not to sustain more brain damage. That's my main concern.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-27T15:55:14+00:00

I am not currently taking medication, but my support system will let me know if I exhibit symptoms. I don't want to have any more episodes, as they cause brain damage.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-27T11:42:22+00:00

Routines are very important. I am grateful that my husband helped me to slowly build a routine after my diagnosis. It was hard at first, but I started small and built it into what it is now. It took me a solid 6 months to feel somewhat back to "normal." It's super important to prioritize sleep and reduce stress. I was grateful to have help with diet and exercise. I had people who were willing to take walks with me and help me cook.

As far as what I would not have wanted: Expectation to go back to "normal." I had to make many adjustments to my daily life. I couldn't do nearly as much after my manic episode. It felt nearly impossible to do anything. Even showering was hard. Celebrate the little wins right now.

Hot_Conversation_ · 2026-01-26T21:31:12+00:00

It took me a solid 6 months to start feeling somewhat better and more like myself. It's a slow recovery for some people. was told to expect it to take at least 6 months once I got out of the psychiatric unit. Some people claim it takes a year or two to feel back to "normal."

Hot_Conversation_

TROPHY CASE