I was diagnosed two years ago (right around my 38th birthday). I have worked through most of the Bipolar Workbook. The version I read is based on the DSM-IV TR but it is still a good book. I could identify with each of the descriptions of the symptoms listed in one of the first chapters. I completed the life mapping activity and mapped the fluctuations in mood over the span of my life, dating back to childhood. My doctor gave me a chart for my moods. I do so and the data shows that I have mood fluctuations and that I respond to medications that treat the disorder. With all of that, I still don't accept it. I just don't want to have the label of being mentally ill. I rebel and I cause problems for myself. I read to find ways to dispute the diagnosis. I look take quizzes to see how I score on a particular day. I feel cured when I am medicated properly and I can answer the questions according to my medicated self. My pdoc told me that we need to work on me overcoming my ideas of what mental illness is about. I agree -- if I truly have this thing called BP, I need to some work.