Welcome worrywort76! I'm glad you are planning to see a Psychiatrist because self diagnosis can be a stressful endeavor. I would diagnose myself with 4 mental illnesses if I took that route LOL!

I know it's difficult, but take it one step at a time. I think it's great to educate yourself on bipolar. I can recommend a great book "Bipolar Breakthrough" by Ronald Fieve. I would also suggest starting a mood tracker there is a great free one online: http://www.medhelp.org/landing_pages/show/8 I would also include what you eat or drink because that also affect one's moods. There are also many other medical issues that can mimic bipolar symptoms. Have your GP test your thyroid.

I do feel like a different person when I'm in a major depression or hypomania (I have never experienced mania because I have Bipolar II).

My friend has a line she uses "worrying is like making yourself suffer before it even happens". Try to go easy on yourself and the "what if's" Keep us posted.