My brother has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. My mom has been in the hospital since I was 5. She also has bipolar disorder. My brother has been hospitalized on two separate occasions and doesn't think he needs his medicine. He also likes to drink, and mixing the medicine with alcohol gives him headaches, so he chooses the alcohol instead.

I am very close to my brother emotionally, and he is so bright, kind and loving when he is not having a manic or depressive episode. I live far away from him, so my other family members have the job of caring for him. I feel guilty that I don't have the daily stress and pain that they do.

I cope with the pain, confusion and even guilt by praying a lot and reminding myself that I just need to love my brother no matter what. He is sick and I have to remind myself of that and love him. I am in the process of trying to find a support group for my family. I am trying to learn all I can and help in that way.

I hope this encourages someone and helps them get through the day. Don’t give up, no matter what happens.