Although I believe that the first step, which basically is admitting that there is an issue and it needs to be healed, is the most important one. Becuse, coming to acceptance with having bipolar is the first step to healing. I think there are varying cases where it is important to realize that it is an illness and you do become powerless under it at times -- but that powerlessness doesn't come from the illness itself but the lack of education and how to fight it.

Consider it like when being first diagnosed. If you were sent to the hospital for suicidal actions or in extreme mania you were not in control of yourself. You believe you are but you are not. That is full effect of the illness taking control of your mind. Also with psychosis and losing your reality checking. I was powerless against it when it happened to me, I had no idea it was happening to me, and I had no idea my mind was capable of that.

But now, I am aware, and I take steps to stay healthy and avoid that type of situation.

Otherwise, I wouldn't join a 12 step program and I agree it is not our fault that we are this way. Finding healing is personal and I think we all need to find our own road.