The importance of Family when coping with a Mental Illness

When I was in my early twenties my behavior became erratic. I went from a straight A student, engaged to be married, future law student...to a drug using, alcohol abusing, sleep with as many people as possible imp. For those that know, Bipolar disorder ussually shows up in the early to mid 20's, And unbeknownst to myself and my family, I was expierencing my first major manic episode.

They shunned me initially. Tried to get me into rehab and when i Refused, they changed the locks on the doors and put all my belongings into my car and wished me goodluck. I was homeless, bouncing from friends couch to friends couch wondering when my next meal was coming from. I lived that way for some time, months...until someone swept me up into the mental health facility and took the time to explain to my family that my behavior was a result of chemical imballance and note a faulty character.

Once they understoood the disease, they decided to help me out again and be there for me. For awhile, they cut off all communication with me, which was really hard, but that all stopped. Life is so much easier when you have a family that understands your issues and is willining to love you unconditionally. Thats what I have once again. And I am so thankful for it.

When did your family find out about your illness and how did they react? Were they supportive or not?