So you’re single with mental health problems, and you feel like you can’t have a relationship. You are certainly not alone. In 2017, there were 46.6 million adults living with mental illness.
That’s almost one in 5 people who struggle (and hopefully learn to manage) their specific condition.
Single With Mental Health Problems? You Can Have A Relationship!
If you’re single with mental health problems, it’s good to know what you’re dealing with.
Mental illness contains a variety of different disorders that can alter the way you feel, the way you think, and the way you behave. Many symptoms can affect singles (and those coupled up).
Here’s a list of symptoms of mental illness.
It comes from the Mayo Clinic.
- Depression, sadness
- Mood swings
- Withdrawal from people and activities
- Detached from the real world (hallucinations, paranoia, or having delusions).
- Can’t deal with stress
- Trouble sleeping or excessive tiredness
- Substantial feelings of shame, guilt or worry
- Alcohol or drug abuse
- Suicidal thoughts
- Change in sex drive
- Feeling angry or violent
- Physical pain that can’t
You could feel down about being single and think you have mental health problems. So if you are struggling with the issues listed above, please seek medical help and talk to a therapist to help you diagnose and manage any mental illness you may have.
How can mental health affect relationships?
If you or your partner have a mental illness, it can, of course, affect relationships. Many people in relationship overlook problems with mental illness. I was in a relationship with someone who had a mental illness, and I was scared to stir up the waters. I didn’t want to get yelled at by my pa, So I let things go and swept them under the rug.
Instead of addressing the problems, I ignored them. This isn’t the way to if you or your partner has a mental illness. So if you’re single with mental health problems and want a relationship, it’s essential for you to feel the best you can before you get into a relationship.
Have a discussion about mental illness at the right time
If you’ve got the bipolar disorder, you don’t need to put this in your Tinder profile. But if you have a few dates with someone and you feel like the relationship is moving forward, it’s essential for you to have a conversation about what you feel like and any issues that can come up.
You might wonder if a person with mental illness can get married
Of course, you can! But if you want to have a good relationship, it’s essential for both of you to be the healthiest you can be while keeping the communication lines wide open.
Mental illness can affect relationships, but you can work things out
But if two people have a commitment and want to work on the relationship, it’s always a good idea to talk to a professional independently and as a couple. If you have a connection and have a spouse, or you have a mental illness, your relationship can end up in divorce if you don’t address problems.
There was a study done on the aspects of marriage, divorce, and mental illness can break up marriages and relationships
That’s why it’s so important to seek help if you have a mental illness
Here are some resources for you if you’re single with mental health issues but want to have a partner
Mental Health America has a wealth of resources. If you are having a crisis, you can call 911, go to the emergency room and you can also call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) and speak to someone at their crisis center.
Here are the types of specialists who also help those with mental illness
Physician assistant (PA). These people are trained to identify mental illness and can treat disorders with the guidance of a physician.
Nurse practitioners have extra training as well to help people with mental illness.
Psychiatrists are doctors who specialize in treating mental health disorders. They prescribe drugs and are trained in counseling.
Social Workers can also help people with mental illness.
Psychologists have a degree in psychology and can counsel people. They do not, however, prescribe drugs.
You can find a truckload of therapists and psychiatrists here at Psychology Today
Summary
I hope this article has given you hope that you can heal yourself and find a great relationship! Mental illness affects many people, and there is someone out there for you.
Lots of Love,
Dina Colada
