[gindy75]

I have a friend that I have known for awhile and he has bipolar. Not exactly sure what type he has. In the last few months we have been hanging out with each other at least 2-3 times a week. Within the last 3 weeks he decided to stop hanging out.

I asked him a couple of weeks ago when the next time we will hang out. He told me sometime. Every now and then I will ask him the same question. Now it seems like he ignores the question.

Lately he wants to be by himself. Also he has told me in the past he sleeps a lot.

I just want to know, Is this a phase he is going through? Will he decide to hang out again? All I want to do us be his friend. I don't want our friendship to end.

Any advice would be helpful.

[reddevil]

If he has bipolar, this sounds like he is becoming depressed.

Maybe you could say to him 'I'm concerned about your unwillingness to come and hang out. I'm worried that you're becoming depressed. I'm here if you want someone to listen ok?'

EDIT: if he is becoming depressed, you may have to do more than what you might think is your share of the work to keep the friendship going. Don't take on too much, and try and know when to leave alone for a little bit. He will quite easily just not contact you, so you might end up having to go out of your way sometimes.

[HALLIEBETH87]

thats how i get when im slipping into depression

[Schatje]

It does sound like depression. It isn't you and it isn't that he doesn't want to be your friend. This lack of interest in, well, everything including hanging out does not mean that he will remain this way or that he is ditching you. With bipolar we take meds and see psychiatrist or therapist to better help us control our moods and hopefully not slip into these extremes, but it does happen. Your friend should get in to see his doctor. This situation you are in requires patience and understanding. Good luck.

[MyBestKids2]

Hi gindy75,

As others had said, it does seem he is falling into a depression. If he doesn't want to talk on the phone or face-to-face, can you maybe send a email or card to let him know how concerned you are?

Wish you luck and peace.

Dee

[gindy75]

We got together the other day. He told me he is dealing with some issues. There are things bothering him. I guess the best thing to do is to be patient and give him his space. I definately agree with all of you I believe he is in the depressed stage.