Learning to accept BP is different for everyone.. Some accept it and march right along, some struggle for a long time.. I personally chose to just accept that Bipolar is part of me. Its not good or bad it is just here.

As you already have been able to look back at your life and realize that BP "fits" .. The thing you need to focus on is that.. adn the "label" doesnt change who you are at all.. You are still you in every way. I was diagnosed at age 43 .. yes looking back BP fit I thought everyone had racing thoughts and ups and downs and felt suicidal here and there .. But I got married had a child and jobs I loved ... So life does have a way of just moving right along . Bipolar doesnt define you unless YOU allow it to.

Now that you have the diagnosis you can learn how to live with Bipolar.. You can go the medication route if you choose too, regardless you will need to learn coping skills and know how and when you actually use them.

As far as telling people ? Well thats a personal decision.. many people tell everyone.. Some people are very picky and may only tell a friend or two , some people tell no one ..its not a case of shame its just a personal decision. It can be helpful to talk to your therapist about disclosing and find out what will work for you.

You can still follow your dreams and have a wonderful life Bipolar is not the worst thing to have.

Welcome to PC