<prompt> Human: I am diagnosed bipolar 1. I have, in the past few months, stopped any form of medicating. Based on the effects of antidepressants and antipsychotics, some of which Ive talked about here regarding a chronic condition Ive developed because of it, I have no interest in relying on anything other than willpower and the support of friends and family.That said, I have a long standing history of losing jobs directly related to my condition. To be fair, Im not even sure how much of it is uncontrollable brain chemistry and how much of it is BS.That being said, Ive considered applying for disability. I really fall apart if Im working full time and Im about to move back to NYC. I may potentially wind up working as a bartender or some other service based job that is mostly off the books but as it is, Im a cook half on half off the books. I do this mostly to qualify for medicaid and make sure some amount of taxes are being paid to compensate.Thing is, Im living on about 10-20 a day before bus fare, food, and whatever else. I wont be paying an exorbitant amount more in NYC because Im moving back into a room with my SO. Still, some small extra cash would help us both immensely.Thoughts? Procedure? I realize I likely wouldnt qualify for months, and I know there are counselors to help you through the process, but I dont even know what to think of the situation, let alone the logistics of it. For reference, I am 27.  <response>: As an aside, saying you will address bipolar disorder through willpower is like saying youll treat your cancer through willpower. It is a medical condition with a biological basis. You really need a medical component to your treatment. Good luck!! 