Yoda and Lovebirdsflying, I can relate to all that you have brought up. I also get tired of hearing from those who know about my illness, "Can you handle it / this or are you up for it," and usually followed by, "Are you sure?" Despite the fact that who ever knows the answer to this in all cases, I have to try and being questioned all the time is frustrating, as if I don't question myself enough as it is! To me, it creates additional doubt and are negative questions, the last things needed when depressed and not fully functioning. I know it is a sign of caring but I have not heard of anyone normally bringing this up regularly to others other than minors and the mentally ill; I am an adult who granted has not always made the best decisions but have to learn from my mistakes as well. If I don't try, I'll never know just like anyone else, mentally ill or not.

I was told school was impossible for me with BP. My earlier record used as proof against me. With meds and support, this round has been successful so far. I had no idea if was truly "up for it" but had to go for it to find out. I still get this and so do friends, no matter what it is, "can you do this?" try; goals even if it is getting out of bed in the morning are important. We may not know if we are "up for it" but ignore the naysayers and never, never stop trying.