I had a mental illness since childhood. I grew up in a very dysfunctional family. I was depressed a lot and had severe anxiety. It got worse in high school when my pediatrician sent me to see a psychiatrist. I was put on anxiety meds, and an antidepressant. In 1995 I was diagnosed with bipolar type one with rapid cycling. It took me a while to accept my diagnosis. I was ashamed of myself. Once I accepted my diagnosis. It took me a while to learn coping skills and get those right medication combination. Today I live a very good life. I have two adult children. I work as a national certified peer support specialist and I am very resilient. I can help you find this also