Hi Brandy

to the forum first of all.
I know that being diagnosed as having a mental illness is never an easy thing, I myself have suffered for the past 20 years on and off. Sadly as far as mental illness there are no quick fixes, it takes time especially if you are taking medication for the first time, any antidepressant takes between 6-8weeks to even begin to work properly. I understand your need to fell well again and get back to work, but it would be better if you don't rush it because then you can make sure that you are truly ready to go back and will cope with it better.
My suggestion to you would be to try Mind Oasis here in Plymouth, as I myself go there and I have found it to be a great help when I have felt so isolated as my family are unaware that I am ill again.
As I said to Lostwithout Mind Oasis is at 8 woodside, Greenbank near the freedom fields park. telphone number 01752 254004. They are openfor general drop in Monday, Tueday afternoon, wednesday and Friday. They do help and advice on a range of topics from benefits to housing, one to one sessions and have a bipolar support group, and you can get a cheap lunch and meet new people and be with people who understand where you are coming from and have been where you are now. they do other stuff too such as art classes and music too.
I am more than willing to talk to you and give you advice or just be here to listen, please private message me if you would like to.
I hope this may help a little.
Teresa
