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Winnipeg Free Press - PRINT EDITION

Divorce common outcome with a bipolar partner

By: Ask Rhona / Rhona Raskin

10/02/2009 1:00 AM | Comments: 1

DEAR RHONA: Last September my wife walked out with half the house. And now, without accepting my offer of counselling, she is proceeding with a divorce. She is bipolar and negotiations are, to say the least, bizarre. One minute she is reasonable, and the next, totally irrational. I am trying to accept the loss of the love of my life. She has made spurious allegations, which are causing me health and financial problems. I was not aware of her bipolar nature until three years into our marriage. Any ideas? -- Need Info

Dear NI: Protect yourself first this time. That means getting emotional support, excellent financial advice and a firm grip on your sense of humour. Marriage is always a cross-country journey -- with a bipolar partner it's often a scenic, but bumpy ride spent swerving around dangerous curves. It's no wonder the common outcome is divorce. Your wife is not responsible -- for her sickness, or for the way she treats you. And you are not responsible for her. Join a group for spouses; you have company and there is a wealth of information. Most people do not understand the stress and trauma experienced by the well partner. You need legal help.

askrhona@rhona.com

Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition February 10, 2009 D3

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