The only things I've found helpful are knowledge and thinking of the mania as a living being that is working hard to destroy me.

I think this message board is helpful too, although I think it has triggered some addictive behavior. I seem stuck in a rut just reading everybody's posts all day and trying to chime in with some encouragement.

I'm in a dreadful mixed state right now. My longest and most severe manic episode came crashing down around me when I got fired a few weeks ago (for manic behavior). I can barely remember what it was like to sleep through the night. Coming here helps to remind me that there are a bunch of good people just as damaged as me.