I would suggest to apply for SSI as a short term thing. Then, if you are accepted, use the education programs to your advantage to persons on disability and get a college degree and if you are able to work full time and go to doctors and a lot of therapy and since you have been diagnosed so young you may have a future of not having to live in poverty for the rest of your life. I recieve SSDI I was diagnosed or misdiagnosed at the age of 21, before the mental health agency encouraged me to quit my job live in group homes which no longer exist, and stop my dream of becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse. Do not think that just because you have Bipolar and some physical disorders that you must live a life on SSI, you are so young and it is not at all fun I am sure you know to be Bipolar, But you are intelligent enough to finish High School and go on to College I would strongly suggest that you do think of that option after the SSI and after hopefully you are able to get your Bipolar under control.

Now at 38 my physical health is deteriorating and I Mentally, barely am able to post properly any longer and I just don't want you to throw away your potential of getting an education and a good paying job when you get older.

If I knew back when I was 21 what I know now, and there were more than Thorazine back then I may have been able to get the help I needed and pursue the dream and passion I once had and once was able to succeed before my health ended up as it has now.

Best Wishes to you and I am sorry that you are suffering, just try and remember you can have a future. Sometimes the Mental Health Agency's can persuade you to go into what is in THEIR best interest, not yours. I do honestly wish you the best of a future life.

Take Care and Good Luck to you, and keep up your dreams and passion for life. God Bless,
Christopher