Hi Stephanie very nice to meet you! I am also a rapid cycler so I understand what you are going through. You are not alone in having family that doesn't completely understand you and what you are going through. It almost cost me my marriage. My hubby went to a NAMI class (National Alliance for Mental Illness) for family members who live with someone who is bipolar. It gave him a much better understanding of what I go through and how it effects my behavior. Also I invited him to my therapist's office so that if he had any questions he was able to get them from the "professional". It really helped both of us, he is more understanding of me now and I am relieved to not have that tension anymore. I think you will be very happy here on PC, there are so many wonderful and supportive people. They've been there for me whether I'm up or down. I hope you make many new friends here.