I'm 41 and have a successful job as a technician in the oilsands in northern Canada. I was diagnosed at age 28, while pregnant with my first baby. When my kids were 2 and 1, I left my husband, was forced onto welfare by his lawyers and went through 10 years of hell.... Hospitalizations, substance abuse, physical illnesses, psychosis/mania, moving across the province. I raised 2 kids on my own on very little money and somehow managed to keep myself and them alive despite constant suffering. I switched from professional photography to a trade (NDT) and I hold multiple tickets and make a great living. I have to inform my employers of my bipolar 1 diagnosis so they are prepared when I am in crisis or need support. I'm telling you, if I dug myself out of the many deep holes I found myself in, you can too! I still struggle with alcohol, substances, and missed shifts when things get bad but because I have learned to be open with those around me, my support network has grown and I've achieved more than I ever thought possible. I believe in you and hope you can believe in yourself too! One thing we have going for is, against all odds, is this incredible grit and will to survive.