🏡 Rights & responsibilities · #338

How do we keep our closeness when one of us is struggling with mental illness?

Closeness can stay alive even while one of you is ill, with adjusted expectations and patience on both sides. Understand that your spouse's energy and mood may go up and down, and that this is not a rejection of you. Keep up small touches and loving words without demanding the same in return. Celebrate the good days without pressure, and accept the heavy days with patience. Discuss each other's needs gently, and involve a counsellor when needed. Look after your own needs too so that you do not burn out. A relationship that survives this test often becomes deeper. See counselling.

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This answer is general reference, not a fatwa. For your situation, consult the religious affairs office, a Syarie lawyer or your state Syariah Court.

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