For me, it's less being bipolar than being defined by it. Having my hopes, dreams and potential minimized and disregarded because of it. Having every negative stereotype about mental illness hung around my neck like an albatross. Fighting so hard to get where I am, only to find I have so far to go. Knowing if I indulge the "shopping spree" or the "drink into oblivion" part of my brain, this all gets reinforced more.

I have no problem with noble fights and stubborn resistance. I just wish I didn't have to fight. so. much.