I was diagnosed at 15. I believed the diagnosis until I became much better at about 18. I wrote off all of my suffering. After that, I had, in hindsight, some hypo-manias, some minor depressions and 2 major depressions. I wrote all of this off also. Then, at 28 ( just 3 years ago), I had a major manic episode and psychotic break followed by the worst depression I have ever had. When I came back to reality, There was no denying the diagnosis. I went back to a pdoc and got back on meds. This is when I finally accepted it. Of course, whenever I am stable for a few months I start to believe I am fine and believe I don't need my meds. When will I ever learn!