When I was younger, my decisions were made by my parents or by the doctors...but now that I make my own decisions I feel a lot better. I’ve sought treatment on my own, it wasn't done by my parents....I think this has made it a bit easier because I can control the appointments and the doctors that I see

- Tom, 22 years old, diagnosed 3 weeks ago.

the ability to discuss my feelings about treatment with different psychologists or psychiatrists... it's being able to negotiate things, even as a young person....”

- Paolo, 25 years old, diagnosed 6 years ago.

.

If you had your first symptoms of bipolar II disorder (BPII) as a teenager, it is likely that your family took a more active role in your treatment. Now, as a young adult, you may want to have more say in the decision-making for your treatment.

Many young adults with BPII find it is important to be independent of their family. This might mean trying to establish a sense of independence for the first time or trying to regain their feelings of independence after a period of depression or hypomania. Even when you are well, it can be hard if family are constantly on the lookout for signs of depression or hypomania.

So long as you are well, it is your choice how much your family should have a say in decisions about your treatment. To find out some ways that family members can help with treatment decision-making, look at the section on How family can be involved in decision-making about treatment. Having a family member attend a consultation with you early on, soon after diagnosis can help them to better understand your BPII and treatment, and make them less vigilant of symptoms.

You might also want to try the interactive exercises with someone in your family so that they can see what is important to you in your treatment and to give them a chance to tell you about their views or concerns.