Way back in the old days, what they used to call manic-depression also included recurrent depression, and Dr Goodwin is leading a movement to revive this view. In other words, you may cycle in and out of depressions in a pattern similar to bipolar, but without the signature highs. There is a strong body of expert opinion that believes these types of recurrent depressions should be recognized as a form of "soft bipolar," a "bipolar III," if you like.

There is a catch-all "NOS" (not otherwise specified) category that clinicians use in a pinch for would-be bipolar IIIs, but the label hardly matters. What is important is that the condition is recognized and treated accordingly. In some cases, this means going with bipolar meds (to treat the cycle) rather than antidepressants (which might exacerbate the cycle).

Finally, the catch: A lot of clinicians are unaware of bipolar II or its "softer" manifestations, much less how to treat them, so please do not hesitate to seek a second opinion.

And finally again: Bipolar II and its softer manifestations are extremely difficult to identify, even by experienced clinicians. So please don't automatically jump to the conclusion that you may have bipolar. But the fact, Ticadoo, that your antidepressant treatments haven't been working for you presents a strong case for you and your psychiatrist (with your husband in attendance) revisiting - albeit cautiously - your original diagnosis.