Missing my beautiful partner

[Suzie101]

I met my partner a year ago. He has bipolar disorder. He is smart, loving, kind and has been a wonderful partner. Two weeks ago he just withdrew. He has been through a very stressful year and only recently was diagnosed and started medication (around 5 months ago). He has an event coming up this weekend that has been causing a lot of stress for him. We have gone from talking very night to almost no contact.

I am trying to understand and be supportive but it is so hurtful. He has explained he is trying to focus everything on getting through this weekend and loves me but is unsure if he wants to be in a relationship. 2 weeks ago he was extremely loving and invested in us.  I am trying to understand...any advice would be appreciated!

[tacocat]

Welcome to the forums, and thanks for sharing @Suzie101 

Being shut out can be incredibly hurtful. I experienced a bout of the silent treatment from an ex-partner, which was just downright mean and uncalled for. I'm not sure it's exactly the same thing that's going on for you, as in my case, it was very intentional from my ex. That said, it is similar in that you're left not knowing where you stand.

I'm hoping some of our members here with a similar lived experience might have some useful insight for you soon.

I am glad you reached out for support though. It's not fun doing it alone. 

[Suzie101]

Thank you. In ordinary circumstances I would thank my partner for the time shared and move forward on my own. But this feels VERY out of character and I think is health related (he explained it as shutting down to try to prevent an episode around the stress of the upcoming weekend). I am struggling between my ego and being loving and understanding. I always want to choose being loving. I have never known anyone with BP before so am learning.