Bipolar Disorder is a chronic illness. It does hold you back because you have to be prepared for the onset of it's different phases. I have a great support group and have developed ways of coping when the "crap hits the fan." Unfortunately medication and treatment can't make you "normal." You will always have triggers, especially when stress hits. I was doing very well then all of a sudden I developed extreme anxiety and mania because I moved out of my home to live with my future wife. There are just certain things that will always trigger an episode and there are just somethings you can't do.