22 couples who both have mental illnesses confess what their relationships are really like
While the topic of mental health has gained traction over the years, having a mental illness remains one of the more difficult facets of a person’s being. This is why it’s so refreshing to read all the confessions from couples who both have mental illness. It shows how two people can come together from completely separate lives—sometimes different disorders—and still be there for one another. Having suffered from a plethora of diagnosis’ myself, I know how hard it is to open up to anyone. There’s always a fear that in being myself, my partner will reject the pieces connected to my suicidal tendencies, depression, anxiety, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. In essence, he’ll reject me.
According the the National Alliance of Mental Illness, 1 in 5 adults suffers from some type of mental illness in any given year, while 1 in 5 youths, aged 13-18, also experience a mental illness at some point in their lives. Half of the “lucky” ones who get to deal with it for life (me), will experience the onset of symptoms by the mere age of 14. Are you kidding?! If you think about it, that’s a lot of people silently crying out for help—some of those not out of middle school. I was one of those stats suffering Anxiety Disorder and various mental illnesses as a child, into my teens, and throughout adulthood. In fact, I still struggle with managing my disorders some days, and will forever.
Regardless of medications and specialized therapies, it can be a lonely journey so, for me, having a partner who gets it, gets me, is more than helpful—it’s essential. With that said, these confessions from couples who get it—who know what it’s like to be in each other’s shoes—are inspiring down to the very core. If you’re in a relationship where both of you struggle with mental health, be each other’s rock. It may make all the difference in the world between feeling supported and feeling alone.
These are thoughts many of us with depression have had.
These two are the yin to each other’s yang and it’s simply beautiful.
This is what teamwork looks like and it’s amazing!
Exactly. When you have that one person who looks past all the disorder’s flaws, it’s easier to get through the day.
Another beautiful confession! You are NOT your mental illness!
It takes a strong partner to accept another whole-heartedly.
It’s all about the support. Without it, there’s little foundation to stand on.
Methods work differently with everyone so it’s great to be able to try another’s.
Totally inspiring!
Love comes at the most unexpected times.
Maybe someday…
I’ve been here, too. It’s important to find the balance.
Love overcomes all.
I’m the Queen of Awkward, so I totally get it!
Therapy is where dreams, and relationships, are made.
Getting through it together is the best way to get through it.
Medication is the hardest part to get right. Having a partner understand this journey helps.
It’s a great feeling to have your rock, isn’t it?
Making it work, against all odds.
Patience is everything. Breathe in the ups, breathe out the downs.
So beautiful!
These honest confessions serve as a reminder to be kind to your loved ones, and yourself. Everyone’s battle with mental illness is different but if you resolve to fight, together, you’ll be one step ahead of the disorders themselves and that is a win.
