I have always managed a pretty normal life on and/or off meds. I have always worked full-time; I have a husband and kids, outside interests and activities, etc. I highly suggest therapy with a therapist with some skill in working with clients with bipolar disorder. Personally, a great part of managing my bipolar disorder has not been med related at all but rather related to learning how to best manage my symptoms, advocate for myself, be highly cognizant of my own triggers that can send me into an episode, etc.