Took me a year of trial & error to get the right meds (combo of 6). Was stable--poster woman (middle-aged) for bipolar then had a long period of hypo mania despite being meds compliant (why does that happen?) & didn't report to doc as it felt so GOOD & didn't realize it was dangerous--but after 5 mos. of no sleep (well, 2-3 hours) a fast crash & OD. So close contact with meds provider, therapist, support group, all are necessary to help us along our way. Doesn't make us weak--just smart to have all those "tools" in place.--Suzy