Bipolar Depression

Hi everyone,
I found out Friday that I am about 2 months pregnant to my ex BP SO. It took almost a year to get out of the relationship and I feel like myself again. I have my friends and family back and my life is on track for the first time in 4 years.
I turned 40 in November and I never dreamed I would be having a child at this point in my life. I am excited and happy but scared to death at the same time. There is very little info on how to incorporate a BP SO into the pregnacy or parental responsiblities that follow. If someone could give me some advise or references that I could read up on I would appreciate it. Please share your personal stories whether they are good or bad. I am at a loss as to how to proceed with this. I need to remain stress free, not just for myself anymore.

Thank You,
Chloe

Hi Chloe,

Congratulations on your pregnancy. You must have horrendous mixed emotions about this. I wish I had something constructive to say, but I'm a newbie to this disease and, from what I've read online, there may be a inherited component to it, so you'll need to watch for signs in your child. I've also read that certain nutritional guidelines may be helpful. So, perhaps if you eat certain foods during your pregnancy, you may lessen the severity of any inherited aspect of the disease. I feel for you and hope for the best.

My wife and I had our last child a few months shy of my wife's 40th birthday, and I have bipolar disorder. I wasn't diagnosed at that time, and while I take my parenting responsibilities seriously, it's a struggle with this disorder. I'm a high-functioning bipolar 2, so I'm probably different than your SO. But if he decides it's worth working for, and if you are able to understand his limitations, it absolutely can work. I wish I could say more, or offer resources other than my personal experience.

Heartfelt congratulations, and I wish all of you a lifetime of happiness.