Sue, I'm with the others. You've found very healthy ways to deal with your bipolar. If you're able, I'd search for new health care providers.

My doctor has actually encouraged me to write while I'm in a depressive cycle. He says it's a form of release and a way to help maintain my creativity. Smart guy? I think so.

Having bipolar has put a bit of a damper in my writing. While I'm stabilized, and wouldn't change it for the world, I do miss the manic side where I'd have hundreds of ideas at a time and the writing flowed for hours.

Sometimes, I'm afraid I've medicated my creativity away.