So, it's been 3 years since my 2nd episode. And before that it was 5 years when I had my 1st episode ever. My first episode, I got better within two weeks of being in the hospital and they decided at the end of my stay "oh, u don't have bipolar disorder." Then 5 years later, I was diagnosed with Bipolar 1.

I still recall some of my delusions and think, "who was that person?! how could I have thought those things?!" One of my delusions included thinking when I got admitted into the unit that I was the reason all those sick ppl I saw in the behavioral unit were there b/c of me. I actually thought I infected them with a horrible disease.

Now, I am fine. No delusions. I did have a long period of depression though from Aug 2007-around Feb. 2008. I think exercising has helped me a lot, and mentally telling myself, "STOP, calm down" when I find myself overreacting to something as small as a friend never calling me back to let me know if we were gonna hang out or not.

I decided to join after I met a patient who showed me Carepages, a way for ppl with illnesses to update family/friends on their progress, and then I thought I need to find a bipolar support group online. I did find actual support groups locally that I could go to a meeting, but since I work usually during the times they meet, this may be my only form of support right now.

I did find a great website and youtube channel when I googled online support groups, I don't know if any of u have heard him speak, but he is very inspirational. I am highly considering buying his book.

http://www.bipolaradvantage.com

http://www.youtube.com/user/BipolarAdvantage

I know right now I am riding a high...I just hope that when I do reach my next low, I can get out of it quickly unlike those last 7 mo. I lost to depression.