newport659, Since you are the studious type, you can check out some bipolar workbooks. They give a lot of info on coping skills. Keep all your pdoc & therapy appts. If you don't have a therapist yet, try to find one. If you have a problem with any of your meds, call your subscribing doc right away. Never stop taking a med unless the doc tells you to. Write down all your symptoms, questions, etc. and take the list with you to your appts. Try to find a DBSA chapter (or 2) near you. You can also join DBSA online for support. See if there is a NAMI near you. They offer peer-to-peer counseling which may be helpful for you right now. And keep posting on this site. There is a lot of support available.

To your question: Yes, it does get better. Bipolar is referred to as a rollercoaster - you go up, and then you go down. It is always changing. No feelings or thoughts are permanent. The worst feelings you have, be assured they will fade. Keep your goal: stability. Also check to see if there is a county or state run wellness center for mental health, and whether there are any clubhouses in your area. If so, they offer a lot of support. Try to stay positive as much as you can.

My best workbook is: the bipolar workbook, Tools for Controlling Your Mood Swings, by Monica Ramirez Basco, PhD., 2006, isbn 978-1-59385-162-0. Look on bookfinder4u.com for best price.