Navigating Relationships and Mental Health

Living with a mental illness can be tricky. Throw in the social and emotional factors of a romantic relationship and it can seem like a maze to navigate. But a healthy union can be extremely uplifting for your mental state.

Here are some concerns you may face when starting a relationship and how to work through them.

Am I ready for a relationship?
Timing is everything in relationships, so being ready for the emotions of dating are crucial to a strong foundation. If you’re in an active addiction or time of transition—like a breakup, career change, or a move—it might not be the right time.

Should I tell my partner about my mental illness?
This may not be a first date topic, but it’s best for both parties to eventually share your mental illness. Many avoid this for fear of rejection, but if your budding relationship is healthy, they’ll respond with curiosity and support. Ultimately, the openness could bring you closer together.

What should I be looking for in a healthy relationship?
Depending on your condition, there are a number of attributes in a partner you should be looking for. Ask yourself how you’d like an ideal relationship to be—how does your partner act? How do they respond to what matters to you?

Communication is your best friend in any relationship, but especially when mental illness is part of the dynamic. A good partner should respect your needs and engage in dialogue about what they also need from you.

How will my mental condition affect intimacy?
Depression, anxiety, past trauma and even certain medications can repress sexual urges. Some can increase libido or usher in other limitations. This is when communication and respect are vital. A healthy sex life can add a new layer to your life, but pressure and persuasion do not. Make sure up front that you and your partner are on the same page about sexual boundaries and expectations.

Should I consider couple’s therapy?
If you’re in a committed relationship, you know things won’t always be perfect. But that doesn’t mean you have to throw in the towel. While we recommend individual therapy to ensure you’re living fully and bringing your best self to a partnership, couples’ therapy can be a great option. A neutral third party can ease you through communication gaps and point out potential problem areas. It’s worked for countless couples, and if you’re invested in the relationship and willing to do the homework, this can be a game-changer.

For mental health questions and concerns, call the National Alliance on Mental Illness helpline at 800-950-6264, Monday-Friday 10 am-10 pm or text “Helpline” to 62640. If you’re in an acute mental crisis, call or text 988 any time.

Sources:
https://diversushealth.org/how-mental-illness-may-affect-relationships/
https://www.nami.org/Your-Journey/Living-with-a-Mental-Health-Condition/Romantic-