I think "coping" has to come after getting on the right cocktail- or concurrent with it. If your episodes are not being controlled by meds, it's hard to cope at all. Can you work with your pdoc to find something that will work for you?

I'm not stable on my meds either.

It's really hard to cope with everything when you're not on the right meds.

This isn't good advice, but I just try to push everything away and sleep as much as possible. I'm on the medication merry-go-round, so I haven't found anything yet to help me out really.

sorry I couldn't be more helpful.

as Harriet says the foundation is the medication..

then you can add a "healthy lifestyle"..things like a proper sleep cycle

If you are waiting to find the right cocktail or waiting for it to kick in then I suggest escapes. Compeltely unhealthy but I found to be necessary in those trying time during med adjustments. Personally I like to isolate and read lots and lots of books. If that doesn't work or if you can't concentrate to do that I suggest physical activity. Mad cleaning sprees or running at least that is productive. In the mean time hang in there!

try to understand something that is very complex....even if I personally have no need for the knowledge...at least it keeps my brain busy

Well. Do what you can to get on the right medication/be open with your pdoc.
-take your meds
If you haven't done so already perhaps read up on it
things that help me-not drinking (especially when not well)..making sure you get enough sleep.
& something stress reductive like yoga or breathing exercises/meditation I think are very beneficial too.
- if there is a real life support group in your area I've heard that can be a pretty helpful component in people's recovery

It took me ten yrs to find the right meds but now Ive been stable since 2002. Keep trying.

i think being on the right meds is a key-they are changing mine so i've been pretty uptight-i know its tough but i try to make the best of things

wow Stable since 2002!! there is hope!!

I agree the right med regime is all important with this disorder
It can take sooo long I know and alot of trial and error
For me I also tried to lose myself when the meds werent working [they have for many years] reading, movies, walks, hot baths and nature I found took stress away
Spiritually helped me so much
Bless you

Thanks everybody for your rely. It helps a lot.