Hey, everyone!

A couple days ago, I got diagnosed with Bipolar I. I've been experiencing depression and general anxiety for the past year, but after going through my first manic phase and hospitalization, my doctor decided I was bipolar.

Prior to all of this, I had been perfectly healthy mentally, so this is very new to me. I'm really overwhelmed and confused with what my diagnosis means and how to cope with all of the symptoms. For the first time ever, I feel like I don't have any control over my life or myself and I'm worried that it will never get better.

Do any of you have any coping strategies or general advice about bipolar disorder? I feel like I was thrown into this illness and I have no idea what I can do or where to begin.