I have mania,hypo-mania, manic episodes, depression, self injury, etc. I get hyper, out of control, etc.
My question: I never know where I am exactly in the huge massive spectrum of moods that being Bipolar brings. HOW can I tell where I am?? I have been like this for like 20 years now and I am still so very confused.
Oh, I also have a Bipolar partner. He makes life difficult. We are never cycling at the same time. He is hyper and angry and I retreat. I don't know what to do.
There are five main states in bipolar disorder: manic, hypomanic, depressed, mixed, or "normal." People with Bipolar I Disorder may experience both mania and hypomania; people with Bipolar II only hypomania. To understand the difference, you may find this share post helpful: Mania Versus Hypomania .
If you're having a cluster of the symptoms listed in that share post, you're experiencing mania or hypomania, depending on the severity. If you feel down, listless, sad, fatigued, have crying jags, feel suicidal, etc., you're in a depressive state. A mixed episode combines symptoms of both depression and mania or hypomania - for example, feeling very sad, yet having racing thoughts that disturb you significantly.
This is oversimplified, but should give you some guidance. My question to you is, are you receiving treatment? From your description and difficulty distinguishing between your moods, it sounds like you're not. If that's the case, I urge you to seek treatment to start leveling out your symptoms and moods.
~Marcia
Important:
We hope you find this general health information helpful. Please note however, that this Q&A is meant to support not replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. No information in the Answers above is intended to diagnose or treat any condition. The views expressed in the Answers above belong to the individuals who posted them and do not necessarily reflect the views of Remedy Health Media. Remedy Health Media does not review or edit content posted by our community members, but reserves the right to remove any material it deems inappropriate.
Featuring Content From:
By using this service, you accept our Terms of Use. Please read them. The consumer health information on is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. You should promptly seek professional medical care if you have any concern about your health, and you should always consult your physician before starting a fitness regimen. Copyright © 2012 Remedy Health Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Thanks so much for such a detailed answer. I think it will help us.