Bipolar affects people in many ways. In addition, the symptoms--as well as the severity of the symptoms--varies a great deal. The same goes for medications. Some work and some don't. A medication that helps one person might not benefit another. And some people may be able to manage the symptoms without medication at all.

Explaining the assorted highs and lows and the treatments isn't easy. Bipolar is difficult enough to understand for those of us with the disorder. Some people form opinions based on one person with the disorder. If he/she can manage without drugs, then so can others. If he/she can work a full-time job, then so can everyone else with the disorder.

But that isn't how it works. Each person is unique. Their symptoms, and the treatment needed, are unique to them. Learning the most we can about ourselves and the disorder will help us make the best possible treatment decisions.