Bipolar Support Group

Hi, I'm Steph, and I don't know where to start. I'm 20 years old, and just had a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder confirmed yesterday.

I suppose I should have known that this was coming, since, when I was in high school, my therapist at the time had mentioned I was showing signs of both. It's just, with the way I was brought up, accepting it has been and will be difficult for me. My family, although full of various disorders (my mom's mom most likely had bipolar disorder that went undiagnosed, my mom has bipolar disorder and elects to allow it to go untreated, my sister was institutionalized for depression, then allowed to discontinue her medication, and then there's the years I spent in therapy following a suicide attempt), has always been of the opinion that there is no disorder that can't be treated by good therapy alone. I know that studies show that therapy is most effective in this situation when combined with medication, but how do I explain that to parents who don't like the idea of me taking medication to help myself?

Also, I'm concerned about the medication itself. I know some of the medications can lead to increased testosterone levels, which I am not sure would be good for me, as I was diagnosed with PCOS about 10 months ago. Not to mention, I am not in a financial situation where I can afford anything, really (my therapy is being provided for free through my boyfriend's military insurance, and I am unemployed).

Lastly, I know that my multiple disorders are affecting my relationships (family, romantic, and otherwise). How do I fix relationships that I didn't realize I was an adverse affect on? I know my boyfriend still loves me, and always will (we've been living together, mostly happily, for 2 years), but I can't help but feel that I have done some damage to the relationship with my ups and downs.

I guess what I'm asking for is a little guidance. I just don't know where to start with all of this.

I apologize if this post is a little lengthy. I guess I needed to get it all out there...

Hi nerdycrafter, you've made a good step by reaching out here. I hope you will find the support you are looking for, and make some friends along the way too. You will find that many here have shared your experiences and your concerns and want to help. I'm glad you're here

Hello, Nerdycrafter and welcome to the group. You are not the only one here with the issue of needing meds but not having the means to get them. There are options available to you, though. Free or low cost meds from pharmaceutical companies, free or low cost health clinics or public hospitals with pdocs on staff. There are some here who will have better ideas for you, I'm sure. I hope will find the support you need here. I know I have. Again, welcome!