Hi,

Let me ask you a question: Do you think life is a matter of choice or of chance? Like, do you believe in luck? So many people go to the casinos in Las Vegas believing that they have “the system” that’s going to help them “break the bank” and make them rich, only to lose all their

money because they were wrong. Do you know why I think that is? I think it’s because when it comes to casinos and gambling, it’s all a matter of chance. I know there’s people who would disagree with me, who think there’s got to be a system to it all, but I still think underneath it all it’s just dumb luck if you win. “It’s all in the cards,” so they say!

Well, I don’t think life is like that. Oh, I believe part of it is chance. But I believe most of it is choice. Like with bipolar disorder. If, say, your mom has bipolar disorder, then “chances” are that you’re going to have bipolar disorder, too. But even though the “chance” may be for you to get the disorder, it’s still your “choice” in how you handle it once you do get the disorder.

I believe that your life, or at least the quality of your life, is made up of the choices that you

make. Other people agree with me, too. There’s a self-made millionaire who says: “There’s no chance to it. I chose to become rich.” Then he set out to do it, making decisions that helped him to achieve his goals. It had nothing to do with “chance,” or luck.

Think about it in terms of recovery from bipolar disorder. Do you think your loved one is going to recover from their bipolar disorder?

Let me ask you: Are they taking their medication? Are they seeing their doctor, psychiatrist, and

therapist on a regular basis? Are they following their treatment plan? Are they going to a bipolar support group? Do they have a good support system? Do they keep a mood chart or diary? Do they monitor their signs and symptoms and watch for episode triggers? Do they keep regular sleep habits? Are they on a good diet? Do they exercise? Are they productive? Do they work or volunteer? Do they have hobbies? Are they well-balanced (physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually)? Do they have (and meet) responsibilities? Do they take care of themselves? Do they have short-term and long-term goals? Do they believe in recovery for themselves? Are they optimistic/positive? Do they have a good attitude? Are they a good problem solver?

These are all a matter of choice! And these are all things that lead to stability with their bipolar disorder, and to long term recovery from the disorder.

Well, I have to go!

Your Friend,

Dave