Hi rapid, how long have you been diagnosed? The meds for me didn't take away the symptoms, but I find now the severity isn't there i.e. my highs aren't so high and my lows aren't as dangerous. It took me about 3 years to get to this point and I found since my med change in May it has greatly helped.

There are many things that a person can do to help manage the illness. I made this list for someone else, but this is what I have learned since my diagnosis. I hope it helps.
·Take meds as prescribed.
·Educate yourself on the illness.
·Be honest with your psychiatrist, GP, therapist etc.
·Get regular sleep, if you can't sleep ask for a prescription for sleep to be taken regularly or as needed.
·Eat properly i.e. avoid excessive caffeine, junk food etc.
·Avoid alcohol.
·Avoid non-prescription drugs and/or drugs not prescribed to you.
·Exercise regularly.
·Set a routine for yourself i.e. getting up at the same time, going to sleep at the same time.
·Surround yourself with people that fill you up.
·Take time for yourself.
·Be patient. The med regime for many diagnosed does take time, but it's worth taking the time.
·Write in a journal especially with how you are feeling right now; that way if you ever considered going off meds it may help you make a better decision.
·Track your mood. Great free one online at http://www.medhelp.org/land/mood-tracker
·And finally remember you aren't your diagnosis. You have bipolar, but you aren't bipolar.