Thanks for sharing your and your family’s experience. It is hell to live through, and not to receive the support you need only makes matters all the worse.
My nephew is going through your experience with one of his sons. (I don’t know the complete diagnosis, other than ‘bi-polar’) but I know how he and his family are suffering.
Not the least to suffer is the patient who is bi-polar, because he really doesn’t have control over his episodes. I’m happy your son’s condition is presently under control, and hope it stays that way for all your sakes.
My son's initial diagnosis (back in 2006) was BiPolar, but as his symptoms got worse, it was eventually changed to Schizo Affective disorder, BiPolar Type. I would urge you to suggest to your nephew, to contact his local nami office and inquire about the "Family-to-Family" 12-week education program. I've been teaching this course for several years now and I can tell you that it changes lives. It won't cure their relative's illness, but it will give family members a much better understanding of the illness and give them problem solving tools and communications techniques that will really help them navigate the difficult waters of a relative with a serious brain disorder.