This was a great post for me to read right now...thank you.

I am bipolar 1 , and I can tell you I am very difficult for my loved ones to deal with I think. I am away from siblings, and I rarely speak with them when I am manic. Unfortunately I do speak with my kids. I always tell myself when feeling better, that I wont call them when ill again...but it usually happens. I can be so argumentative, then very sad...and very up beat...waaaaayy to upbeat. Poor hubby gets the brunt, and for some reason, he has learned some excellent coping skills. At least that is what he tells me.

We speak often...both the kids, my husband and I when I am well. I use those times to try to learn and grow....and to attempt some amends. They are often far too kind, telling me amends arent necessary, but I come out of my manic times so ashamed, and so fearful of the next time.