Wonderingwhatwentwrong (original poster new member #86719) posted at 6:37 PM on Sunday, December 14th, 2025
Hi all - just wondering if anyone has experience of dealing with a spouse who has received a bipolar diagnosis? For context, d-day was about 6 weeks ago - it was an affair but, allegedly, a couple of encounters spread over months rather than anything intense. He immediately attempted to take his own life after he confessed and has tried on a few other occasions, claiming he doesn’t recognise himself. He’s subsequently been diagnosed as bipolar and having a hypomanic episode during the period in question and is now in a depressive one. I fully believe the diagnosis/mania as his behaviour defied logic for a single person, let alone a married one. His whole behaviour even outside the infidelity was bizarre. I just have no idea where to go from here. He says he doesn’t believe it excuses his behaviour and he’s terrified of the future, is engaging with help/medication but says it’s like looking back at someone who wasn’t him.
I guess I’m just looking for someone who’s lived through similar?
leafields ( Guide #63517) posted at 7:51 PM on Sunday, December 14th, 2025
My sister has been diagnosed as bipolar. Her XWH cheated - she didn't.
While it may have some contributory factors for your WH, he knew what he was doing was wrong and could have made different decisions. Like talking to you, ya know?
There are several members with varying degrees of mental illness woven into their stories. I hope they'll chime in and help provide guidance.
BW M 34years, Dday 1: March 2018, Dday 2: August 2019, D final 2/25/21
