I gained weight unfortunately. About 40 lbs. I'm almost 6' so it's not a disaster,but I'm happier thinner.
You drink a lot of alcohol? Could be self medicating.
I self medicated all thru my 20's& 30's but not alcohol.
Your questions about if it's possible to live a quality life without Meds? Yes.
But I've had some serious episodes,ip,ECT.

So I'm completely compliant with recommendations from Pdoc.
You are young. Sometimes bipolar seems to have worse effects when you are much older.
I think it might have to do with hormones.
Best of luck. Keep going to Therapy. NAMI and DBSA have free groups.