My Psychologist always tells me to be calm and remember " This too shall pass" because i get so paranoid about it and i do relate to everything youve said. So ive realized im never pro active for a long period wanting to help myself. I tell people about it and in the middle of the story ill just say " im done talking" then its as if my brain is just so tired because i go trough everything in my mind all day long.

Then comes the denial,always telling myself that im imagining things or that other people have bigger problems. The truth is,denying it does not make it go away,it makes it worse. Also started on Epitec as it is a light form of Lithium. Does not work with me i stay hungry all the time and so on. The medication is such a challenge because the sad thing is it only works for a while and then it makes other stuff happening.

Currently im just on no medication whatsoever and im coping sometimes untill the depression kicks in. I can handle the mania its just that irritability and im always concerned that im offending someone and i dont have control over it. Your support system is such an important factor and remember YOU DONT ALWAYS HAVE TO BE STRONG. People dont expect it from you its you that put so much pressure on yourself that you feel a need to be perfect for everybody all the time. There is no such thing.

Knowledge is power. The more you understand the illness the more you will know how to handle it and watch out for triggers. Never leave you medication without consulting your Dr first. You may think your fine but youre not. Talk about your illness to your loved ones because they also dont understand sometimes. Stop fearing your illness and conquer it ! Its just hard because when the states kick in everything is an effort and one tends to loose interest in everything.

Always ask and always talk. Dont be afraid of anyone. Very good luck and remember your a soldier in a lifetime battle !!