You have had unexplained crying spells. You have withdrawn from activities that you used to enjoy. You have been unable to feel and act normally at school, work, or home. Bipolar disorder is one of the most well researched mental illnesses. Many very successful treatments have been developed.
Medications are the most important part of treatment.
Lithium and Depakote are the most often used and successful drugs for this illness. Sometimes you may need other drugs. For example, you may need antidepressants, antiseizure medications that work as mood stabilizers, or antipsychotic medication to control the symptoms. If an episode is severe, you may need to spend some time in a hospital. Because bipolar disorder is usually a lifelong illness, you may need to take medications for the rest of your life.