{{{{{{{{{Aiyu}}}}}}}}}

A warm and loving embrace for you. You are not alone. Bipolar can be a scary thing but at least you have the knowledge to deal with it. Keep working with your doctor to find an appropriate med and dose that works for you. There are also some wonders being done with vitamins and supplements (Omega-3 Fatty acids from salmon is important). Talk to a nutritionist to determine what foods, supplements will help you maintain. When you are cycling it can be difficult to keep control, especially if you have studies and assignments to think about.

Find a support group through Mental Health in your area or online, you will see others share your issues.

Keep a regular sleep schedule. When I am feeling "up" I used to stay up all night, no more, or when I was "down" I slept 15 hours a day. I keep a regular sleep schedule now and it helps me to maintain greater control. I still have the ups and downs but I have learned to recognize and work with them.
I know I can do more in a hypomanic phase and get a lot accomplished, but I am realistic now to know this phase will pass so I don't take on more than I can handle in the moment. When I'm in a depressive cycle, I try to limit myself to the bare essentials to get me through and I've learned that it is okay,, I don't beat myself up anymore with the negative self talk.

This is a disease, a brain chemistry imbalance. Would people expect someone with a broken leg to run a marathon?? Of course not, but we sufferers of Mental illness are expected to pull up our socks, smile when we are crushed inside. The hardest thing for me was to learn to say 'NO" to people and not feel guilty.

Sorry that was a bit of a ramble, just wanted you to know, you will work through this and finish your studies.

Blessings,

Lila

A big hug from me with all the love and warmth I have to share. You must not stop finding and searching for help. The right medication will help you, your will power and your ability to have come this far, is a proof of your inner strength to become well again. It may take some time for treatment and medication ot show signs of improvement, but many people live with your and similar conditions and have good healthy and happy lives, as long as they remain on their medication. Know that you can and will win. We all carry our burden and so must you. Do not give up Uni. This is something you must conmplete no matter how long it takes. Look ahead, expect to become better as you read this, Warm regards as I present you and your pain to the Gods of Africa.