This sucks. However, bipolar isn't contagious . It sounds like your brothee's behavior has set off some dysfunction, which is very common. I have a brother who is 33, jobless and living at my parents house. He has repeatedly verbally and physically abused multiple members of the family, yet still gets "special treatment" from my parents. I am 35 and this can make me angry and jealous still. As a Mom, though, I realize the situation is difficult and frightening for my parents as well. And they really have no idea what to do. No one does. To be clear, my brother has not been diagnosed as BP. I personally think it's a personality disorder.

Anyway, my suggestions for you would be to see a counselor - mine has helped me deal with this situation many times over the years - and check out DBSA where relatives of depressed and bi-polar individuals are welcome to join the weekly meetings, share their struggles, get some understanding and feedback.

One more thing, this brother I speak of has a twin brother. Brother 1 has been bullying and beating me and brother 2 down ALL our lives. This is abuse and recognizing it has done me a world of good. It took me until I was in my 30's and him physically assaulting me to recognize it as abuse and realize it has always been there. If you feel this might be your case, a counselor is a must.

Sending a hug.