It is not uncommon to find bipolar in more than one family member. Both my father and my brother are bipolar as well as me. But, she really needs to go to a doctor and get a proper evaluation. We can only guess while they will get it right. And remember, there are always pieces of the puzzle you do not know about, no matter how close you two are. It is best for her to talk with a psychiatrist in private so the all the pieces can be laid out and the pdoc can make an informed decision.

Good luck and let us know how she is doing and how she makes out.