Struggling with bipolar husband

[grandiflora1]

Hi
I just need some advice. Husband has a diagnosis of bipolar 1. Diagnosed last year after becoming very manic and sectioned as a result. He has since been well- engaged with psychiatrist and taking meds. Since august he has become increasingly irritable and more recently very aggressive and hostile if I get into an argument with him. His sleep is all over the place- wakes up in the middle of the night and than exhausted during the day and has to lie down. I’m really struggling at the moment as after our last argument some weeks ago he has refused to engage with me, ignored me completely and is very hostile. Is this part of an imminent episode/is it an offshoot of bipolar ? How long does this rage and anger last if it is an episode? Has anyone else experienced this rage and hostility in a partner with bipolar ?

Hi. I'm sorry, That sounds very stressful - he could be 'hypomanic' - like a less severe form of mania? Usually involves sleeping less and being irritable like you describe but also feeling energised and excited so I'm not sure. Lasts a few days. Have you ever looked at the Mind.co.uk website or bipolar UK website? They are pretty helpful.

When he recovered before were you able to make a relapse prevention plan or look at potential triggers to further episodes that you could refer to in times like this? It's a shame he seems to be angry at you at the moment as you do need his trust to start approaching at what's happening with him. Is there anyway you can get him back talking to you? If he's poorly at the moment chances are he will regret and feel bad about being hostile when he feels better. Assuming that's what it is causing it.

My husband has bipolar too, he's generally fine but occasionally life can be a bit of a rollercoaster. Did you get much support when he was diagnosed and sectioned?
I've always had the stance that the fact he has bipolar is not an issue, the issue is that he manages it as best he can.

You can always call his mental health team if you are worried, for support and advice as his carer. One thing I've learned is not to delay acting if you have a bad feeling something isn't right. Especially when my husband stops sleeping, things can deteriorate pretty fast.

Take care x

Forgot to say - maybe some counselling or therapy could help with his anger. Being sectioned and diagnosed in itself must be very traumatic and who knows what else he could benefit from talking about. Meds are only part of the solution IMHO.