It's a bit of both.

Online help can be great for at that moment in time when your alone and in need of help/advice.

Irl I have a good network (family, Psychiatrist, Peer Worker, Community Support Worker, CPN (Community Psychiatric Nurse), Therapist). I would of said friends if they were there for me but they aren't. I have 3 friends all female and they are all about themselves. I haven't heard from them since Christmas and it's not for a want of trying.

Plus I attend a monthly Bipolar Support Group which is held for 2 hours a month.

I have called/emailed the samaritans if i really need to talk i try not to rely on this though as i know there are people worse off than myself needing their help.