Dear Jellybean,

I think you are too quick to slap on the label bipolar.

It's funny you should ask. My mother, my son and I are ALL bipolar, which is the current medical terminology for manic-depressive. I am Bipolar ll, and my mother and son are bipolar, as well as a first cousin of mine and one of my husband's first cousins.

Bipolar disorder involves mania, hypomania and depression, and the mood swings in between those states and "normal" behavior. Bipolar II is simply hypomania. Mania is more extreme than hypomania, and I'm sure you understand what depression is.

Medication Helps

Lots of artistic and talented people are bipolar. Today there are many
medications and modalities which work well for most people with bipolar
disorders.

If your friend has been diagnosed - is he on medication which helps equalize him? If not, he needs to pursue that to maintain a normal, healthy life and relationships.

Visit His Therapist Together

You should see his therapist together to discuss all questions you may have.

This Disease Is Highly Treatable

OK, but she SHOULD be concerned about passing this on to her childern.

My son was JUST diagnosed as bipolar, and the psychiatrist said to me "if you have to be mentally ill, THIS is the illness to have. It is highly treatable
and one can life a normal, healthy, prosperous, successful life once medications are regulated."

Good luck bubala,

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