Hey Kevin. I'm 28 at was officially diagnosed at 22. However I earned my stripes a few years ago and was bumped fr bipolar II to bipolar I. This just means I had a full blown manic spell... Well lots now. It's scary and it draining. And I agree. Even when I'm stable I'm a list maker and a goal planner. I spend a lot of time here and there prioritizing. While I'm stable some little quirks, if you will stick. That's one of them.

You sound like you have the weight of the world but you will get through this. You just need to find the medication that's right for you. I think a lot of people fear why Bp will do to their quality of life. It really ranges. I have a very successful career, am married w 2 kids, and am going to school part time. Learn your body and your signs. Take care of yourself. And have an awesome psych doc because a bad one can sure screw ya.

Hang in there!