@bewildered
That is exactly the place I find myself in. Stand strong in love and hope the boundary will bring him the life he deserves at some point - or have no idea where he is or how he is doing. The state of mania forces them to protect their beliefs that work against them to a point where they can end up in dangerous circumstances. If you were to ask my son - he has never been happier or more clear in his thinking- despite having given away everything he owns, not a penny to his name and living on the streets. The paranoia was breaking before he left - the mania flaring at random intervals - and I was sure to tell him as he walked off that I love him very much and I am always here for him when he is ready to accept the help he deserves. This is the only way I can help him and not enable him into a life controlled by brain chemistry that works against him. He is smart, clever, very kind and personable - it is my belief he will be able to survive and be safe - even in the streets - and with time may see clearly how much his family loves him and return with an openness to accept help and live his best life - and stop the cycle of being fine , being depressed , giving up , running and sinking into “ missions” that the brain tricks him into thinking are real ( this time it was to be a solo missionary to the homeless , last time it was to escape to Mexico for a simple life ). I explained all the ways I can help him when he helps himself - that his desire to the help the homeless are admirable but his living independently is what will allow him to have a true impact. That the whole situation is not either or - but rather both and! However, At the moment he is not open to reason, as that’s how this period of bipolar goes. Thank you for caring. It is truly appreciated.