It isn't easy, and its something you grow more comfortable with over time. These medications can help save your life and keep you from IP care. That's how I think of it. I'm out in the world, function, with a job, because of my meds. That doesn't mean I don't have episodes anymore, but with meds and therapy, I weather episodes a lot better than I use to. Learn what you can about being bipolar. Talk to people on here too, we've been there or are going through the same thing. So you're not alone.

Try not to obsess. Think about other things too, like what makes you happy, what you enjoy. Focus time and energy on a hobby. Something I've picked up recently is an adult coloring book that also acts as a therapy book. While you color it asks you questions. I got it for like $8 at Walmart and use Crayola crayons. It's inexpensive and very calming. So if you're sitting up unable to sleep, find an activity to occupy your time so you're not getting stressed out and anxious. I often find doing something, as simple as coloring or cleaning up my room a bit, helps tremendously.

For me...I was diagnosed with a mild form of schizophrenia. When I found out it was a misdiagnosis, that I was only bipolar...I almost cried for joy. Not because its an easy disorder to have, but schizophrenia...that's a really hard one to swallow. And feel ashamed of. For me dealing with a bipolar diagnosis is easier than the schizoaffective one. What I always told myself, when symptoms were acting up, is that I have a beautiful mind, and now I add that I'm a beautiful person. Watch the movie A Beautiful Mind if you haven't already. And Benny and Joon. Whenever I need a pick me up about my multiple diagnoses, I watch those movies and they make me feel better.

Being bipolar is definitely not the end of the world. It just means you have a condition that needs to be managed. And its possible to manage it and live a mostly normal life. Take heart my friend. It's going to be okay.