by Eden Gardner

Created on: April 14, 2009

Although the the divorce rate in this country is staggering at well over fifty percent and while a marriage in which one or both partners suffering from a mental illness does certainly increase the divorce rate, it is possible to have a successful marriage; it's keeping the marriage from dissolving that is difficult. Yet, marriage is not impossible. Many factors determine the success rate of any marriage; children, finances, insurance, health, love, honesty, family values, family relationships, etc. However, having a partner with a mental illness is one of the most difficult challenges any married couple can face. Despite proper medications, therapy and treatment, the unique circumstances and personalities within the family are the determining factors on whether or not the marriage can last. It may seem impossible to many couples, especially during the onset of symptoms; but depending on the depth of understanding and commitment, the couple could prove successful in their partnership.

The common marriage vow "to love honor and cherish, in sickness and in health, till death do us part," is the first factor of success in any relationship, but becomes exponentially burdensome when one partner suffers from mental illness. Some partners may love their spouse, yet, cannot cope with the sometimes impossible scope of problems that arise in the relationship as a result of the illness. In addition, there may be a situation in which one or more members of the family are in danger from abuse or neglect and the coping spouse must make a decision regarding the safety of the entire family. He or she may also have the burden of working while caring for the sick spouse, children, home, errands, bills, etc. and may suffer from depression, isolation and worse, the loss of employment, benefits and household stability. Neither the sufferer nor the suffering partner can handle mental illness alone; and although it may seem difficult, seeking help is possible.

Many community organizations such as SAMHSA'S (Unites States Department of Health and Human Services), NMHA (National Mental Health Association) and many state and local agencies are available to assist the family in seeking treatment and family services. In addition, family practitioners can assist in guidance for treatment, therapy and some medications. Community organizations such as local churches, libraries, educational facilties and social service departments can provide information on where to seek assistance. In most

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