Hi, I live in the UK and have suffered with bipolar type 1 for just over 13 years. A couple of weeks ago I had a hypo-manic episode, but managed to keep the lid on it before I became fully manic/psychotic. I think I've been suffering a depressed phase for over a year but have managed to fight it through bicycling. I feel 'normal' for a few hours after a ride before the endorphins wear off. I'm seeing my psychiatrist next week to hopefully discuss using an anti-depressant: maybe something like lamotrigine.

I feel like I'm on the edge of an epiphany about my illness, but still it escapes me. I get a lot of comfort from listening to music and I love house. Its message of unity and peace gives me hope for a brighter future.

I've got no close friends and get most of my support from family and a support group I go to once a week called 'The Oasis'. We do things like play bingo and do quizzes, which I would normally find boring, but the group makes it fun and therapeutic. I always leave with a smile on my face.

I love science and nature and am currently trying to get through 'Does God Play Dice?: The New Mathematics of Chaos' by Ian Stewart. I haven't picked it up for a few weeks so may have to start again!