Lobo, here's some helpful information:
NIMH · Bipolar Disorder · Complete Publication
and
Bipolar Disorder - Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment of Bipolar Disorder - NY Times Health Information
Finally, please read Shutterbug's journals. She has generously shared her experiences with us over the years. I'm sure she'll be around to answer your questions too.
Please remember to take care of yourself. That's just as important at this time.
Shalom!