Dear Big Sister,

I cannot imagine what you are going through after being diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder

this past summer. At least now you know what is going on, and together as a family we can

figure out the next steps. I love you, and I am here to support you in every way possible. You

are not alone with this illness, as over 2.5% of adults in the U.S. have been diagnosed with

Bipolar Disorder.

As you know, with the right treatment plan and the love and support of your family and

friends you can live a happy and successful life. Many famous and successful people have

Bipolar Disorder, and they are doing amazing things while managing their diagnoses. Ever since

your diagnosis, I have been researching Bipolar Disorder. Many reputable sources say that the

most successful treatment plans include a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle

changes, and I know you have been starting to incorporate all of these factors into your daily life.

I know it sucks to have to take medication every day, but it’s much better than the

unannounced and uncontrollable manic and depressive episodes. I have learned that there are

four different types of medication to treat Bipolar Disorder: mood stabilizers, antidepressants,

antipsychotics, and anti-anxiety medications. I know you have tried a few of these different types

of medications and experienced some the negative side effects from taking them, such as weight

gain and acne. Most people take at combination of at least two different types of medications,

and a majority of people with Bipolar Disorder go through more times of depression than manic

states. I’m happy to hear you are working with your doctor to get on the right medication plan

for your needs. It must have been frustrating to have to go through trial and error of different

medications; however, I believe your current treatment plan of taking Lithium, a mood stabilizer,

has been going well. As you know, when taking Lithium you must have regular blood tests taken
to monitor your lithium levels. I know you hate giving blood; however, it is important to make

sure you are not having any negative side effectives from the medication on your internal organs.

I know you have a lot of stress with school and everything. Remember that stress can

trigger both mania and depression. To manage stress, speaking with a therapist is important! I am

glad you finally have found a therapist you like and feel comfortable talking to. This is great! I

understand your therapist is a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist which helps you identify and

restructure negative patterns of thought and behavior. Remember, be open and honest about your

thoughts and feelings as your therapist is there to help you manage your bipolar symptoms and

provide you coping mechanisms.

Mom and dad mentioned to me that when you are home for break we are all going to see

a therapist together for a session called Family Focused Therapy. We are a tight family, and this

type of therapy will help us help you. This type of therapy will ensure that the daily stresses and

problems we encounter do not contribute to your illness. If you find yourself out of routine, not

sleeping regularly or having interpersonal problems or relationship specific problems, there is

another form of therapy, Interpersonal and Social Rhythm therapy, that may help you, maybe

you find someone who specializes in interpersonal and social rhythm therapy.

Lastly, I want to remind you not to only stay on your medication plan and keep seeing

your therapist regularly but to also live a healthy lifestyle. These three areas will help with your

Bipolar Disorder. I know it can be hard to stay healthy in college, but you must to make sure

your treatment is effective! Make sure to stay away from drugs and alcohol, and to focus on

regulating your sleep schedule, nutrition, and exercise routine. Limit the Netflix binges, and try

to get at least 8 hours of sleep. Make time to do some sort of physical activity 3-5 times a week

for just 30 minutes a day. There are also some diet changes you can make to ensure you are
getting the best treatment. Doctors recommend people with Bipolar Disorder eat certain fatty

fishes a few times a week, and you can incorporate this into your diet with fish oil supplements

or certain nuts. Make sure to avoid caffeine and sugar, as it can also have adverse effects on your

treatment. Be careful of what you eat and drink plenty of water!

Sorry for making this letter all about Bipolar Disorder, but I love you so much, and I

want to help you deal with this illness. Bipolar Disorder sucks but you are tough, smart, and

determined, and I have no doubt that you will not let this diagnosis stop you from being happy

and successful! Cannot wait until you are home for the holidays!

Love you so much – Cece☺