Psychological Support (bipolar depression)

My mother and older brother are / were bipolar. It's a tough alienating disease, and there are a half dozen different flavors of bipolar and t seems. The one constant is the up and downs, and what comes along for the ride with that (depression, schizophrenia, etc.) varies. Balancing the highs and lows without turning them into zombies with medication is incredibly difficult. They love the highs as well, and in many cases refuse medication. Support is the only thing you can do - just being there is half the battle. Most people will walk away from him/her as you said b/c it's hard to deal with but a good support system is so crucial for them dealing with the disease. Doctors pretty much play Russian roulette with meds and it can take some time to find the right combination that works. So, my advise is advocate for them, be there to talk to, and encourage them to seek treatment. Don't try and diagnose or provide it. It's an incredibley complex and difficult condition...

The Reddit support group is a good Suggestion IMO also....good on you trying to be there for them!