I don't know, medstudent. I'm a registered nurse in a higher-level job and I've been told that I function well at work---in fact, both my boss and the two senior supervisors just below me were genuinely surprised to learn I'm bipolar. That could be because every bit of energy and sanity I possess have been invested in my work; even so, I know I've been extremely excitable and distractible the past few months and I actually have lost control a couple of times (behind closed doors, yes, but people did witness them, which is NOT good for the professional image).

Being a doctor, though, is a lot different. It's certainly a lot more responsibility, and if your illnesses aren't well controlled it's a recipe for disaster---not only for you, but for anyone unlucky enough to be in your care if/when you become acutely ill. I don't mean for that to sound harsh, but as a medical professional myself, I wouldn't be comfortable working with a physician who's impaired, whether by substances or mental illness. Believe me, I understand what it means to be mentally ill, and I would hope that anyone working or living with me would call me on it if I start showing signs that I'm getting sick again.

IF you can be stabilized and maintained successfully with medications and/or other treatment modalities .......IF you can develop some insight into the issues which make life so difficult for you......IF you allow yourself a few years to grow up a little more......then yes, you should continue your medical education. Your pdoc's concern is valid and I don't think he said what he did to upset you, or because he thinks you won't make a good physician. He is more than likely trying to get you to think about what you're doing and take things a little slower, because you are apt to decompensate as the pressure gets ratcheted up.

I wish you the best, hon.