[Alaurabail990]

Does anyone have any successful methods of dealing with bipolar II?
I try to find healthier alternatives to coping with my emotions other than abusing substances.

I was diagnosed when I was 17. I've been in and out of therapy, and I refuse to take medications (would rather not feel like a zombie).

I know working out helps. I also paint a lot (awesome emotional outlet).

Any other suggestions?

[joypulv]

For the depression times, I suggest either being outside or next to a window just before dawn. For some reason it has helped my mood throughout the day.
Better than staring at a light box in the winter time. I borrowed one once and didn't like it.
I don't obsess, but I like to watch where the sun rises each day as it moves through the equinoxes, and I like to notice the time. If it's a cloudy day, I just say oh well. And when I was able to buy a nicer house at 65, I bought one on a quiet rural road high on a hill, with the main rooms facing south. From 18 to 50 I had lived in cramped city apartments with windows looking out at the building next door. So it's sort of a matter of having money now, for me.
This isn't saying that my life is all rosy.