Keeping a mental health issue from your partner

[HikerShawn]

Would any of you (or do you or have you) keep a mental health issue you have from your partner?

As in, not tell them you have an issue and keep it secret?

Why or why not?

 

[Nomad]

My spouse has anxiety issue, even though she is fine now, once she was under medication. If I share anything bad, that will trigger her anxiety, therefore, I always keep my mental health issue with myself. Sometimes when I feel a need to talk, I will always talk to my elder sister, and sometimes with father.

 

[Hazel]

Keeping a mental health issue from your partner is often driven by fear of burdening them or being judged. But long term secrecy can strain trust and intimacy. Honest, paced conversations usually strengthen relationships and allow shared support, even if it feels uncomfortable at first.

 

[Master-one]

Well, when your partner is not that co-operative, you start keeping secrets. I am on antidepressants, but I would not let my partner to know that I consume antidepressants and antipsychotics because I simply do not want to be judged in a negative manner.

 

[Shree]

Some people keep mental health struggles from their partners out of fear of judgment, wanting to protect them, or not wanting to feel vulnerable. While understandable, it can create distance or stress, opening up, even gradually, often leads to better support and understanding.