I need some advice if you can help because I don't know where else to go. I have 2 kids -- one is 50 and the other just turned 47 -- who have been diagnosed as Bipolar I. Their father -- my ex -- also has Bipolar I as does another child he has to his current wife.

I could make this long, but will try to get to the point here. My son, 47, was recently diagnosed Bipolar I, and put on Lexapro which prompted him to get a series of migraines. He stopped the med himself and now he won't go to the psychiatrist to get another drug because he wants to drink which he does alcoholically. He also has a predisposition to alcoholism from both parents' families. I have been helping him financially for several years as has his dad in the past, but we just can't do this anymore. He cannot hold a job. He does have a drafting degree and has had many jobs which he always loses. I have told him today (June 29, 2008) I am giving him a box of food, $25 and letting him wash his clothing, but then I'm done. He has at his disposal counseling services that cost him nothing and a food bank. Last week he spent most of his stimulus check on alcohol. I've got to make him understand he is responsible for himself. Am I doing it the correct way? Your advice would be most appreciated. JinnyK