Hi, im 36 was diagnoste with bi-polar 5 years ago. I would go into extreme mania then severe depression. During my mania I would go on shopping spells, drink alcohol excessively, party, pick up strange men for sex. Then I would hit my lows and be in bed for days sleeping. I have been level for 4 years now. I found for me that keeping stability in your life as much as possible helps. I had to get rid of friends who brought constant drama or problems. I also kept a mood chart daily for my doctor. My son was diagnosted 10 months ago with bi-polar its been a long hard ride. He has been hospitalized twice. He has been moving forward and doing great. Now its starting all over again!!! I feel like im loosing my mind.....AGAIN