OMG, Sharon, Self-ostracism hits so close to home. I liken it to an enforceable agoraphobia. I shut myself off completely from my friends, my activities, everything. It's like going through a long illness with a communicable disease. You can't be with anyone. Once you're "cured" of the communicable disease (I know I shouldn't use that word with depression but I hope you know what I mean) you can once again be among people again. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on self-ostracism.

I'm always afraid of when it's going to come back again. Being bi-polar, I know I'm cyclic. I know I'm going to go through cycles of ups and downs. They won't be as severe because I'm on meds, but I know they're coming. How should I prepare myself for those times? Should I build up a small support system with hubby and friends so that I can let them know when the cycle is coming and be prepared for their help during the low/depressed time? What kind of help can they give me?