Manic depression and relationships

[Some Moron]

I have been battling manic-depression for years, been on meds for years, been to shrinks for years and while things are better than they used to be, the symptoms are never "gone". While my wife does understand, stood by this for years I often wonder if one day there is going to be a breaking point.

When the manic-depression hit its worst, I was laughing, up all night, super-sexual, thought I was Superman and was a real asshole. Then the depressive episode would hit then boy did it hit! I even considered suicide. That was 7 years ago and decided to get some help because as you know, suicidal thoughts, behaviors, gestures and stuff is a serious deal. At that time, the wife and kids were all in turmoil, the wife was frustrated and all but never wanted to "leave" me. Or was she? I never really found out.

Not just with manic-depression mind you. There are other mental illnesses that put serious strains on relationships, and was wondering if anybody else goes through this and your thoughts.

 

[bisexplicit]

The same thing happened to my uncle and his family a few years ago.

They've stuck together through everything, but their relationship was incredibly strained.

Being on medication has helped his family enormously, though.