Post
Anna Salmina
1y
Specialist

It's natural to want a partner who can understand your inner world at a deeper level and share in your struggles. I can see how you're attracted to the idea of being with someone who struggles like you as it allows a deeper bonding and mutual understanding.

Your therapist has probably advised against the idea of seeking out a partner with BPD because they've seen how these relationships can be quite intense and volatile, and it can be very difficult for both people involved. For example, it's common that in this type of relationship the slightest disagreement can trigger a burst of anger, fear of abandonment and other intense feelings. It can go from seeing each other as a perfect match to experiencing distrust and even hate towards each other, when people might act impulsively to harm one another.

It's possible to have a healthy and positive relationship with someone who shares a diagnosis, but it needs a lot of effort and openness between the partners. It might work if both parties are committed to therapy, working on their own issues, and are willing to support each other to make positive changes.

It seems like you’ve been aware of the needs behind being attracted to the idea of this kind relationship. I suggest that rather than focusing on the diagnosis itself, consider the specific traits that draw you to this type of connection, and whether those needs could be met through other relationships. For example, with someone who is deeply empathetic and understands the condition or is willing to learn more about it. Think if there's something else despite the need for understanding and support, that attracts you, like a need for excitement and passion. See if there are other ways to fulfill these needs, like through hobbies, adventures or trying new things together.

If pursuing a relationship with someone with BPD, reflect carefully on what would make it succeed despite the challenges. What qualities would you need to see in them beyond their diagnosis (e.g. commitment to therapy and self-improvement)? How would you actively work to make it healthy for both of you (e.g. setting healthy boundaries, communicating openly about issues, sticking to your own therapy)? Going into it with eyes wide open can set the stage for growth.

Every relationship is different and it really depends on the individuals whether a relationship will work or not. It's important to be aware of the risks and know what to do in order to increase the chances of the relationship being healthy and fulfilling for both of you.

Veena Choudhary
1y
Specialist

When dating someone the first thing you might look is similar interest, appearance, goals align with yours, understanding. Regardless of how compatible you might be but dating has its own struggles. Every relationship has its own challenges so dating a bi-polar or not will still have its own set of challenges. At the end it takes hardwork in any relationship from both partners to make it successful.


Dating a bipolar has its own advantages and disadvantages. Now that you have the thought its best you just understand the pro's and con's if you are planning to get into a relationship with bi polar or if you are planning to act on it in the future.


There are pro's in dating a bipolar. Dating a bipolar would automatically make you empathetic towards each other. You would have less work to do when it comes to educating your partner about bipolar disorder. There will be less fear of rejection or stigma attached about Bipolar.


Being a bipolar the shift in mood can make communication and socializing difficult. when just one person lives with bipolar disorder the other partner may take on the additional task and responsibilities providing invaluable support and care. When both people in a romantic relationship live with this condition they may have to rely on each other for support. while symptoms of bipolar can be managed with medication and psychotherapy but they still can take a toll on relationship. For the best chance of success in a relationship it is very neccesary that you :


  • openly communicate. you need to clearly describe what each of you should expect when either of them is experiencing mood shift. you also need to tell each other what you usually do to manage your moods. Ensuring that both of you are in same page can foster clarity and stability in the relationship and avoid any dysfunction in relationship.
th
that m8
1y

Seeking a partner solely based on a shared diagnosis might not guarantee the understanding and support you’re looking for. Instead, I’d focus on building healthy relationships with individuals who value empathy, communication, mutual respect, etc. In short, I’d focus on healthy relationships.

Mi
Michelle
1y

I’ve never thought about this but dating someone with the same diagnosis makes a lot of sense. Unless, of course, it’s manifesting differently in them, or if you’re on different stages of your healing process. At the moment, I’ve convinced myself that I don’t want to be in any relationship at all. Being single means emotional stability, and I value it. But your dream is attractive.

ti
tirelessWrestler
1y
Author

@Michelle Yeah I jokingly dream of a dating app for people with BPD lol… I’m sure there are all sorts of reasons as to why it wouldn’t work in reality. I’m not actively seeking it, just wondering...

oo
oompa_the_hermit
1y

I can imagine why your therapist advised you against it. It seems to me that it’s very rare when relationships work out with both partners having mental issues. It requires a tremendous amount of work from each partner and actively going to therapy. Even having that, your feelings won’t always be the same as your partner’s, and no amount of understanding will save you from splitting on them, which may result in very painful situations. I can see where your fantasy is coming from, but please know and be sure that true understanding and connection can come from various sources, not just from a shared diagnosis

Je
Jen
1y

I thought about it too! I struggle so much in my relationships because of the misunderstandings that my personal issues are causing. My relationships never last long. I think it might work as long as both people are willing to be flexible and tolerant. I guess what I’m looking for is just someone who can appreciate how hard I am fighting to be a better person.

ti
tirelessWrestler
1y
Author

@oompa_the_hermit I know, I know. I mentioned that I’m not going to act on it. It can be very fulfilling, but it can also drive me nuts

Ka
Kai C
1y
Comment deleted
Ka
Kai C
1y

Makes perfect sense to me! You want to feel seen and understood. Having to explain yourself over and over can be exhausting. I get it ❤️

ti
tirelessWrestler
1y
Author

@Anna Salmina You sound much more positive about my idea than my own therapist! Perhaps it's not so dumb after all. Thanks for your professional input, I really appreciate it!

More on this topic