How Do I Treat Someone With Cyclothymia?

My boyfriend has Cyclothymia.
I'm extremely patient and as understanding as possible. I read everything I can and take nothing he says or does personally. I offer endless support. It's hard for me as I don't fully understand as I've never experienced anything like what he, or you, go through.

What is the best way to handle him when he is in depressive mode? He says that being with me causes these episodes but breaking up with me would hurt him more. I always remember that this is a psychological issue and not him, I just find it difficult to know what to say, what he wants to hear and what I should do.

Is it possible for a person suffering with Cyclothymia to hold down a relationship with a girlfriend/ boyfriend?

Hi, Beth! Of course you can have cyclothymia and have a girlfriend or a boyfriend. Has he said exactly what triggers the episodes, and not just being with you? If he has an illness, you're not responsible for what's going on with him and the episodes could just be triggered by something else instead, if he wasn't with you. He needs to get treatment and therapy, so he can deal with his issues propperly.
It's great that you're patient and supportive and it must really help him, but it seems like he needs more.

Thank you for your reply jasmin.

The episodes are triggered because he feels momentarily better when he knows he is alone. This is what he says causes the pushing away. It builds in his head so much and gets to a point where pushing me away becomes the easier option.
Also, he says perhaps he is testing how much I can take before I abandon him.

It's a shame that this is happening to him, but he can't just give up and let it damage his relationship with you. He needs help, don't you think? You guys could even have some therapy together, if it's possible.