Are you accepting of your diagnosis?
When I was first diagnosed Bipolar, I didn't really process it well. I thought that it was nothing serious. Though I had been struggling for years. It took a while to be diagnosed with Bipolar II they thought I was just depressed which made things worse. I finally started taking it serious this month because of a situation I got myself into. Finally taking my meds, and hoping I stay on them, I have a tendency to stop taking them. But I am now accepting.

How old were you when diagnosed?
I was 24 when I was finally diagnosed.

Current treatment choice/why?
Currently just medication, but planning on getting a T and a doctor once I have health insurance.

Did your lifestyle change since being diagnosed?
A little bit so far, but my meds are not fully in my system yet. I am still struggling with my episodes, but hoping to feel better soon.

Your opinion of meds vs alternate treatment?
I think meds are a great decision if they work for you. I probably have a while before I find the right medication, but I feel it works for me. I do want to get into therapy eventually when I can afford it. But I think it takes a combination of things to get my life on the right track.

Level of education? did Bipolar affect your abilities?
Started college last fall, but have dropped out currently, couldn't handle the stress, but trying to go back this fall.

Do you work, if so where?
Currently unemployed.

Family life? Who do you live with, how do you all cope with this disorder?
I currently live with my fiance, he has always been a great supporter in my life, and I'm lucky to have him, he's also majoring in psychology, which helps. My family is pretty supportive, but I have isolated myself from them do to how ashamed I feel.

Do you feel your quality of life has been increased or decreased since experiencing Bipolar Disorder?
I feel my quality of life has been a rocky road so far, I have struggled for a long time. I am hoping that my quality of life will increase now that I'm taking it seriously. I think in the next couple months I will have a new look on life.