Miss Laura, I admit right off the bat (batty?) that I have not read other people's responses to your question. Frankly, I find dwelling on being bipolar too depressing! I have been fighting this battle for about 12 years, if I count from when I was first diagnosed, and I still don't like to think that I am bipolar, although I SAY I am and get treatment.

So, as I'm indicating, I do get treatment for it. I take medicines, which have varied greatly over the years, and I stay in therapy. Alas, I have still had to be hospitalized some, though. But I have agreed to go in for this treatment, too. I don't fight the docs over it.

I try to keep a sense of humor about it, too. And I look for humor in life in general. I watch funny movies and TV shows, read jokes, etc.

I am blessed that my hubby accepts me, since he is also bipolar. Neither one of us was diagnosed before we married. I guess like just attracted like. I also have two friends IRL in the city I live in who accept me--one more than the other--and we do things together.

I do find being friends with people here helps. We can accept each other and talk about our mental disorders or whatever, without the judgment that often goes on in real life. I don't have to try to figure out who I can tell and who would be scared away, like IRL.

I have read books and articles on the subject, so I haven't avoided it totally. I try to keep enlightened.

But, I have to admit, having Bipolar Disorder really breaks my heart. (Maybe I shouldn't say this.) I lost my whole career over it, and I am now on disability. Oh, well, dear one, bottom line, I just do the best I can to survive--and sometimes, at least now and then, to thrive.

I also try to keep up with hobbies such as reading for pleasure. And I am writing a book about being mentally ill!

In general, too, I try to be nice to myself--not negative. (Can you tell I'm bipolar?! I'm having a time shutting up!)