3 Tips for Dating with Bipolar Disorder by Robyn Tamanaha, LMFT
Living with bipolar disorder does not mean individuals cannot experience fulfilling and meaningful relationships. Navigating the dating world with this condition may present challenges, but by gaining insights into symptom management, understanding personal values, and seeking therapy, one can foster healthy and successful connections.
#1 Identify Your Warning Signs
In regards to relationships, there are some common symptoms influenced by Bipolar Disorder. During mania or hypomania, individuals may exhibit goal-directed behavior, heightened self-esteem, excessive talkativeness, and impulsivity. In some cases goal-directed activity could carry over into social situations or manifest sexually, such as flirtatiousness or intimacy. Conversely, depressive episodes may lead to decreased interest in people and feelings of worthlessness. Nonjudgmentally observing how your symptoms manifest during depression and mania or hypomania can be beneficial. (Note: depression is not a criteria for Bipolar I disorder, so your attention will be focused on exploring how your mania symptoms manifest).
#2 Explore Your Values
According to Dr. Russ Harris, values are defined by consistent patterns of behavior, rather than aspirations or achievements. There are many values, which you can find linked here. Within the realm of relationships, exploring your core values becomes imperative. A few examples of relationship values include consistency, support, acceptance, adventure, encouragement, intimacy, equality/fairness, fun, and independence. Identifying these main relationship values empowers you to assess compatibility with potential partners. It is equally important to gauge whether your partner acknowledges, respects, emotionally supports your values, even if there are differences.
#3 Therapy Can Help
For individuals living with Bipolar Disorder, identifying their symptoms during an episode may be challenging, especially if they are currently experiencing one. It’s not uncommon for individual’s living with bipolar to feel influenced by their symptoms, even when it feels positive! It is important to note that not every decision or behavior stems from the disorder. This is when a therapist specialized in Bipolar Disorder can help differentiate between an episode, an individual’s characteristics, and relationship needs.
Are you struggling with dating and bipolar disorder? You don’t have to do this alone. I specialize in bipolar disorder. If you are interested in receiving therapy with me, let’s schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation.
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Disclaimer: This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. The topics being discussed are meant as a self-help tool for you own use. It is not psychotherapy or counseling. This information is to be used based on your own judgment. If you need to speak with a professional, you should find one local to you and contact them directly.