Kim Kardashian asks for compassion as Kanye West struggles with bipolar disorder

Kim Kardashian West on Wednesday opened up about her husband Kanye West's bipolar disorder, calling on the media and public to show "compassion and empathy" in light of the rapper's recent erratic behavior. West launched his presidential campaign Sunday in a rambling speech where he made bizarre comments about abolitionist Harriet Tubman, revealed he had wanted to abort his now seven-year-old daughter, and broke down in tears.

Reality TV star Kardashian West wrote in lengthy Instagram stories that she had been reluctant to speak publicly about how her husband's illness had affected his family "because I am very protective of our children and Kanye's right to privacy.

"But today, I feel like I should comment on it because of the stigma and misconceptions about mental health," said the 39-year-old.