Not everyone has these opportunities but I'm sure there is always peer support groups of which I guess online forums is one! I was relying on them for social contact outwith my parents until recently & when I was ill last time I was completely isolated so I know how it feels.

It definitely helps me to be able to talk freely here for one.

@ newtus - where meds aren't working & the side effects are bad then it's understandable you should turn elsewhere for coping strategies. That's not to say people on meds shouldn't though, meds are only part of the picture.

How many different meds have you tried out of interest?