While I don't live in a panacea, I've been very fortunate to have a family, friends and an employer who all have been very loving and patient with me. Their patience is finally paying off.

I just got a new job, but my old job was very consistent and paid well - I did have some issues with my boss at times, but these were not just my irritability or aggravation. I don't have many friends because I cut most of them out of my life - they were far too into the drinking/partying/clubbing lifestyle that was the true underlying catastrophe contributing to my major bipolar episode and unthinkable behavior. My family is always consistent though there are some issues with my mother that must eventually be dealt with in counseling. What I am trying to say is that there are some issues in all areas of my life, no matter how small they are. I believe some are due to my illness and others are just naturally occuring stressors. What it comes down to, for me, is trying to get through each day on its own with easily not-too-far-off goals in sight. Sometimes you have to start really small - you can't expect to just fix your whole life in the drop of a hat. That would be too overwhelming. I am sure that what I am saying you already know - but sometimes we just need gentle reminders that things truly can be ok when you are managing your illness through proper treatment.

bp, i will be married 25 years this may to a wonderful man who has put up with alot of my shit. also, i am working fulltime in retail management that pays very well. so, after many ups and downs, hospitalizations, and med adjustments, i feel the best i've felt in nine years. it does get better, even tho at times i NEVER thought it would. hang in there!

I have EVERYTHING you mentioned. Except I just moved and have not found new job YET

In almost 20 years that I have known I had
BP, I have only been hospitalized once.

I have always worked with the exception
of a few weeks. I've worked for the past
7years as an RN, working 3 twelve hour shifts per week. Not to say I haven't had
challenges at work, with co-workers; I believe almost everyone does from time to time--even non-BPs. My job pays well, I am happy & very satisfied with it.

I have great friends at work, church...
I am not married, but I have been in serious relationships. There are only 2 I regret not investing more time in; as they could have resulted in good marriages, I believe. I'm still waiting, and believe I can be a part of a good marriage. I went through divorce as a child, and vowed not to endure it as an adult (pretty easy if you never marry HA!). So, maybe that lends to my singleness; but I do feel capable of having that level of relationship, when I meet a man who is also.

Drama free families? Get real!!!
Anyway, I know that I am blessed!!!

30 OR 40 JOBS IN 30 YEARS NO JOKE. SOMETIMES IT IS CAUSE I'M MANIC I GO FOR A BETTER JOB OR BECAUSE I'M DEPRESSED I QUIT.
HAVEN'T BEEN GREAT AT KEEPING JOBS THAT IS FOR SURE AND I HAVE A MASTERS AND WORKED IN MOSTLY UPPER-MANAGEMENT

It's good to hear all the success stories. I ordered all the books by Kay Redfield Jamison, cause I feel like I need some positive energy flowing my way. I'll let you guys know if it helps. :)