Well, I'd say, yes!! I've been feeling that way for the better part of nearly 3 years now. I will see people sometimes,and go to dinner at people's houses etc. but would rather not have to be around lots of people. I do enjoy the forums and e mailing though. I think for me, I'd just really rather be around other people who are bipolar, and understand me, and I'm not finding any one else like that except online!!!!

"Cuckoo's Nest" is what my family calls my most favorite place on the planet earth.  My garden.  I have been landscaping my yard for the past 8 months.  I love every moment of the time I spend outside.    Nothing makes me happier than not listening to yacking friends, family members or TV.  The ringers on my cellphone are different for my husband and 2 children.  The rest of the world can just take a number.  If I dont call them back (which everyone expects) I dont care.  It's too much work. 

I suppose it looks like we are depressed when in fact we are in our heads.  Who wants to get into someone else's?   Solitude should not be confused with loneliness.  You dont have to give anyone your mental health status.  I say this only if you are not deliberately hurting anyone's feelings or depriving your children from going to birthday parties, etc.  The people who know you and of your condition will learn that we simply need to "check out" sometimes.  It could be hours, days or even weeks.  I once went off of my meds and went under the covers for 3 months.  I apologize to no one and use every morsel of my energy trying to keep my household running smoothly.

Continue to spend as much time in your own head as possible.  Dont feel guilty.  Enjoy it.

tg