My best friend lives many miles from me. Several years ago our relationship was stronger. We talked just about every evening sometimes for hours at a time. Over the past year or two this has faded. There are many weeks between our e-mails, and I don't think we have talked on the phone since last fall.

I do not believe this is anything personal. My friend struggles with bipolar disorder and some other things. She sees a therapist and medical doctor but hasn't been able to find the best treatment. I deal with mental illness too but have been doing very well. I've been on consistant medication and very stable.

I miss our friendship. I've told my friend many times I am here for her, so it would be surprising if she doesn't know it. The distant does make things difficult. I can't just stop by to say hello. I'm concerned about my friend and want to do whatever I can to help her.

I don't want to be a pest but want her to know she can come to me with anything. It's frustrating because I truly believe this has nothing to do with me or her not wanting to continue our friendship. I believe she is struggling with her illness. I've known her to sort of become a hermit before but there was a time when we talked about anything and everything when she couldn't talk to anyone else.

Not sure what the right thing to do is. Continue reaching out to her or just sit back and hope one day we can continue our friendship?