Hello all. I’ve been a long time lurker here mainly. Diagnosed at 21, tried to handle it on my own til about 35. I had a major breakdown and was tired of wanting to die. Was able to get on meds that day with a little persuading when they understood how serious I was. I am on 1000 dose of Depakote. I call it my magic pill. The rest of my background has to do with the reason for this post. I have read 50% of people with bipolar do not or cannot work due to their condition. Is this true? Holding down jobs over the years has been brutal. I’ve somehow managed and actually excelled. I find it so hard though because my life looks so normal from the outside, no one would ever guess I am severely mentally ill. I have a very severe case of bipolar, PTSD, severe anxiety, ET CETERA lol. I am only out to my very close friends and family and I never share it with my work. Now that I’m almost 40 though, I am feeling a duty to be more open about my experiences to help others who are still really struggling. Don’t get me wrong, every day is still a struggle. But I’m here, I’ve survived, I’m engaged(something I thought I’d never get to have) and I’m supporting myself with my partner. Are y’all out about it and speak of it casually? What are you experiences or day to day life living with this blessing/total curse disability/gift? Thank you in advance for any input and your vulnerability for sharing.