Hi all - I am a 25 y/o newly married female and newly diagnosed with bipolar II. I was previously diagnosed cyclothymic at age 19, but shied away from any medical intervention because I believed I could control it. Fast forward six years, many sexual partners, dollars spent, hours not slept later - I hit my lowest low and knew I needed help.

I am immersed in talk therapy weekly, see a Psychiatrist every 6 weeks for medication check ins. I am currently on 50 mg Lamictal + 50 mg Pristiq. I have noticed I feel much better, my husband has made comments, as well.

My struggles come with accepting the western medicine (which I am taking, and will continue to take) and supplementing that with holistic and natural practices. I am attempting to educate myself, I have been reading since being "rediagnosed", started taking more vitamins, working on cutting out bad foods, getting into a regular cycle with sleep/wake, no caffeine, no alcohol, massage therapy, all of which were recommended. Is there any additional things you have tried that have made a difference? I know everyone is different, but I'm just looking for ideas or thoughts on the holistic side of things.

Also, I am interested in disclosure. Did you tell family? If so who? Why? How did it go? I am starting to wade into those waters and feel as though everyone thinks it's best they tell me why they think I'm NOT bipolar. Obviously, a lot of my struggles are behind closed doors. No one knows about my promiscuity, lack of sleep, or too much sleep, need to go, go, go, inability to turn my brain off, or on. No one, that is, except for my husband. I'm feeling hopeless as far as family support is concerned.

Any advice is appreciated!