My favorite three books are The Bipolar Survival Guide ; what you and your family need to know by David Miklowitz md (excuse the title) bipolar for dummies and Bipolar Demystified by Lana Castle.

Two resources I know of for support groups are DBSA and NAMI.org, you can go to their websites to find information. I am more familiar with nami.

I don't personally know of anyone who manages bipolar well without medication. I am pro med and will do whatever it takes not to feel like crap.

I also see a psychologist for therapy, I didn't have very good results with a couple of soc workers. One kept encouraging me to drink wine at night to sleep, my pdoc told me quit her quick which I did.

Best wishes on your journey.