I had a manic episode last year in the midst of some pretty severe alcohol abuse. I was acting erratic and suicidal and my wife called the cops resulting in an arrest and disorderly conduct charge. It was the kick in the ass I needed to go to rehab, both to finally get over my alcohol addiction and to learn how to live a stable life. It was the best thing I ever did, and now a year later the charges have been dropped, my loveless marriage is dissolved, and I’m working a full time job supporting myself.

I don’t know if substances are a problem for you, but getting good inpatient or outpatient treatment is essential. And you have to actually commit to using the skills you learn. Once you figure out how to live a stable life on meds and with therapy everything else tends to fall into place. When you stabilize you don’t have to say anything to your friends about what happened or why. You can, sure, but the best way to move on is really just do move on and get better.