We've been together 5+ years. Not that it matters but I'm 36F and he's 34M.

For the record, this is his first episode. It was likely brought on by a medical issue and the stress from that. He is a kind, caring, supportive, and compassionate man. He does not drink, he does not do drugs, he takes his mental and physical health seriously. This has been an awful experience for both of us, but I'm not about to leave him.

I know that BP is a progressive illness, I also know it can be well managed. He's also very insightful, intelligent, and self-aware. He knows and admits he said some things that were hurtful to me, but it's nothing we can't overcome. He's doing everything to get better and I want to and will support him.