When My Partner Became My Caregiver, Our Relationship Couldn’t Recover

All relationships involve caring for a partner. Sometimes you’ll need them more than they need you, and vice versa. Mutual care, and respect, are key parts of maintaining synergy in a romantic relationship. However, when living with a disability or a chronic illness, striking the right balance between being cared for and caring can be precarious. If you have a long-term mental or physical condition that affects daily life, it’s inevitable that you’ll sometimes need a romantic partner’s help more than they need yours. This help can be physical, like washing the dishes or grocery shopping, medical, dosing out medications and driving you to doctor’s appointments, or emotional support.