my sister has been bi-polar since she was a teenager. She lost her son 5 years ago and has had a difficult grieving process as he was 'special needs' which kept her on her meds and more balanced then ever before. She also used his disability benefits as income. She has not held down a job for more than a few months, and so at age 44, has no savings or retirement and lives day today.

She has been dating a man, that she ' was in love with' and happier than ever. I have never met him, but he at least provided a roof over her head. She claims he has become abusive to her and is trying to take custody of her other son from her.(he is not the father) She is distraught and depressed and has claimed she is going to commit suicide. I never know how much of her life is true, how much is paranoia, or over-exaggerated. I have to keep some boundaries or I fall into a fight or flight mode over her. I am a state a away, and cannot financially help her out. She is always asking for money. She claims she is staying at a shelter. Last year she claimed she was homeless. I never really now what is true.

I am scared though one day she will go through with suicide and I will feel guilty for not doing enough. She has custody of one child and a young adult that depends on her too.

Any advice is welcome. thanks