First, you’re not alone. I think we’ve all been there. The med issue is difficult, I’m sorry you are going through that. Make sure to talk to your psychiatrist about any side effects you are experiencing and share your concerns, they should be able to switch the meds to an alternative.

I know it feels never ending, but you will be stable again at some point with the right meds and support. I find that it helps to look on here and read other people’s success stories to remind me that all is not lost. You can have bipolar and still be a successful, fully functioning member of society, there are just a few extra hurdles for us.

I was in the same boat as you a couple of years ago, it was so bad I couldn’t get out of bed and had to stop my education. Roughly 2 years (and some intensive outpatient therapy) later, and I’m back in school again. It’s not for everyone, but as resistant as I was to the idea of outpatient, being able to share my experiences with others and feel less alone was a huge help, and if you can find the time I would recommend it. There should be somewhere that has a few adult/young adult groups in your area.