sanerdudette

What really is the best way to cope with a bi-polar spouse, taking into account how hypersensitive they tend to be and how a strong reaction can provoke an hours-long tirade?   As a coping mechanism, I have found that the best way is to react with as little emotion as possible and to cushion all responses.  You must really think about all the different ways in which your spouse may react, before you open your mouth to speak.

The unfortunate consequence to this is that you lose all your affect, and your true voice is taken away from you.  I  would advise those of you who want to stay in the relationship, in order to  retain your own sanity, you should keep a well-hidden diary or get a good friend or relative that can be your sounding board.  It will make you feel better, and the diary may come in handy in years to come, when you review it and realize that you were crazy as your spouse is for staying in the relationship.