Bipolar in the family Support Group

My 21 year old sister has bipolar. While going through this forum has been very informative it has made me quite sad. It seems like people with bipolar are not able to live a normal type life at all. Are there people out there who live a somewhat normal life with meds or are you always having highs and lows?

Hi, karen.

Many of the posts you have read are from partners with unmedicated, untreated partners with bipolar. Admitting to having bipolar and seeking help and maintaining responsibilty can make all the difference. Although there isn't a cure, with treatment most can lead a happy, productive life. I think it's great that you're concerned about your sister. Please keep learning and helping her

Karen,

I have BPII and while I do have some mood swings they are not as debillitating because I am med compliant coupled with therapy and or counseling when necessary. You could always go to the BP support group and just read some posts. You don't have to join it if you don't want but it can give you some insight into the thinking processes your sister might have. Just a thought. Thank-you for loving your sister so much.

Post edited by: tinlizzy, at: 01/18/2010 05:40 PM

Hi Karen.

Terri makes a good point. Many people with Bipolar Disorder have long periods of stability. My wife, who had a deep psychotic episode in her early 20's, had 18 years of stability before another psychotic episode a couple of years ago. But mostly all you're going to read about on a Bipolar Family members support group site is those in need of support, or who's loved ones are struggling with their disorder.

Hopefully your sister has and continues to seek treatment for her BP.

Paul

Hi Karen,

We had this discussion earlier in the group. The people here are here because they love their SO but also need a lot of support because of issues with their BPSO. It would be hard to say that we are a typical cross section of the spectrum. Having watched it first hand, medications can make a huge impact and I have heard that therapy can also. That being said, this is a great and very supportive place! Welcome and good luck.

Rich

Hi Karen:

I agree with Lizzy that you should also read the posts in the Bipolar forum and the Bipolar II forum. THere, you will see many people who successfully manage their bipolar symptoms and how they do it. Although every person is different so they may all have different methods. But, #1 is the proper meds and therapy. Please keep us updated by posting here and asking questions, venting, etc. But, don't give up hope. Explore how others manage the illness and educate yourself to help your sister. We are here for you.

Many people with BP live very productive lives. acceptance of the illness and treatment are the keys.

I have to say from my experience with my DH who has BP it is possible to live a normal productive life. Keep the faith. A good doctor is essential as well as understanding of the illness and family support. It still is not always easy. My DH has good days and bad ones. Not to the extent where he is not productive or not functioning but just making mountains out of molehills as my girls like to say (today was one of them). Hope this site brings you some strength.

I have to say I did have some very good times all during my illness. And yes, there were hidious times. But between all my mental and physical problems I'm living on a disabilty income.

But I still hold hope or the future.

Karen77, I have to say that everyone that has this illness is different . I know my Aunt has had it for 20 plus years and yes she had episodes but they were during stressful times or when her doc tried to wean her off the meds saying maybe she did not need them . All and all she has been stable for many many years . So there are some stories that are not always gloomy .It all depends on when they are diagnosed it would seem the younger and sooner the better . So your sister has a good shot at stability if properly diagnosed and med compliant . good luck to you . Keep us posted