Okay AG, deep breath in, now exhale. Deep breath in, now exhale. Good.

Next, regarding the severity of your cycling...you need a med check. Something ain't right. I remember in the past that you mentioned there are certain drugs you won't try because of the possibilty of weight gain. Well, it might be time to put your pride or sense of selg-image aside and be willing to try other avenues. Eventually the body will adjust if the med is right for you and become more stable. Then in your stability you can focus on such things as eating right, exercising, drinking at least 64oz of water everyday, meditation, etc...
Would you at least be willing to consider being more leaniant (sp?)? Talk to your pdoc. A few extra pounds is worth some sanity, don't you think?
About your brother, when you aren't quite so angry with him, send him an e-mail explaining things in your own words. Let him know that you are willing to be open with him about your illness, that you would like his support. Tell him all that you do to try to deal with this illness, let him know how difficult it can be, but there is treatment.
You must remember AG, to ppl who don't KNOW bp, it's extremely confusing and hardest on the ppl around that bp person. Cut him some slack. At least he was asking about you, that shows concern and wanting to understand. Give him credit where credit is due. Don't shut your family out AG, they are a big part of your support system, a big part of your life. Don't push them away. Forgive them their ignorance, how are they suppose to know? And when it's time to hunker down, and that's okay, let them know nicely why you need some space and time.
You can do this AG, you're tougher than you think. You just need to cut yourself some slack. I think we all need to. We are our own worst enemy. I say we all should do something about that. Don't ya think?
TgrsPurr.