I was diagnosed bipolar when I was 16 but as a teen I didn't like taking pills and was seldom compliant. I started vigorous treatment for the BP when I was 21, right after my first child was born. I have stayed compliant only going off my meds during my pregnancies. I'm almost 35 now and it's "controlled" for the most part now.

I wasn't diagnosed until mid-30's and it was such a relief to know life wasn't supposed to be the way it was. The spiriling depressions and intense manias almost ruined me. But, I have educated myself about bipolar and do exactly what my pdoc and tdoc say and I have learned to live a productive life most of the time. Things could always be worse I guess so I just cope with the hand I have been dealt and try to do my best. :)

I was diagnosed until Just a few years ago in my early 30's. I had previously been diagnosed with anxiety and OCD (mainly obsessive thoughts and checking behaviors that revolved around my family's safety. The episodes of mania were obviously noticed by family but only one therapist thought I fit the description and I refused at that point to see a psychiatrist .
After my marriage fell apart and I had several serious health crises my perspective on meds changed. I began to see a psychiatrist regularly as well as a therapist. The meds have kept me stable for almost two years now. After more health issues and issues with my ex husband I think I am having my first deep depressive episode. I called doc today and she made some minor tweaks to the meds but miles to go and all...I want to feel well again