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I'm reading this thread late, so pardon the delay. I stuck with a girl friend of mine in college who had bi polar. And I mean there was no doubt about it. There were times I thought I would need professional help.

The cycling, the grandiose plans, buying sprees, promiscuos sexual behavior,believing she didn't have to study because she was brilliant, the alchoholic binges, drug use. Then the inevitable crashes (depression), and suicide attempts, wanting to quit school and 2,3,4,5 am phone calls desperate for a ride home from somewhere.

The pendulum never rested on reality, it was either far to the right or to the left. Finally, I talked her into getting some professional help (I was at my wit's end) they started her on Lithium. I wanted to kiss the doctor. What a difference it makes when they stay on their meds. huh?

And what a difference it makes when they decide to quit taking them. Fortunately,after 14 years she has decided that it will be a life long thing for her to do. She has made great strides, nothing is a rose garden, and probably never will be for her,but at least she's in the real world more days than not.

I do wonder about the reliablity of the Kennedy in question about being true to his medication regime. He seems to still be acting as an addict. I quess in this case, it's not so good to go someplace where 'everybody knows your name'.

Best wishes to your family and you for taking care of your kids.

We should all have a friend like you. You explained bi-polar perfectly. I think many of the Kennedy family most likely suffer from other forms of mental illness (due to the family history of such). It would had been better for this family if they had been more public about it, instead of hiding. Many Americans suffer from various types of *labels* and most assuredly depression. Most would understand his struggle. BUT when you lie and cover up your misdeeds, many as you have witnessed on this thread will have no sympathy.I hope for the best for Mr. Kennedy, but I do feel now he must resign his seat. He has proven unstable to lead especially in this critical time in our country.