I think all new medical problems are frightening. So you've got lots of company there.

"Bipolar" is a word that scares a lot of people because most of the sufferers you hear about aren't successfully treated. Most of us, like me, are getting along--but it could be better. You are right in thinking that the search for the right drugs is pretty much ongoing.

You'll meet some people here who have been stabile for years on the same meds. Lucky folks! The important thing for you now is to be certain of your diagnosis, and have the best therapist and psychiatrist that you can get. You need to be a good match, have good communication between you. You need to have ready access to both of them.

I have bad days, good half days or good night's. I work, go to various events, lead a more or less pleasant life. I'd rather not be bipolar, but being so is not impossible for me to face today. I have no family support but I have a few good friends.

And I have PC. In the few months I've been here I've discovered an amazing amount of compassion, generosity, & imaginative coping skills right here. It's quite a community.