Bipolar can play out a bit differently for different people, though there is much common ground. That's the preface to say that I see myself somewhat in these behavioral descriptions, but some differences too. Probably the biggest one is the flipping out, then being overcome with remorse and self-loathing. Over-analyzing, yes. But with the difference that I very rarely verbalize it. Ok. Correction. I don't on the more paranoid things, but on decision-making, oh yes. Like... "well, if I do this, then this, but what if? yeah, but it *could*, and then what?!" version of overanalyzing (which drives my BF right up a wall ). On the paranoid stuff, I tend to keep that inside, because I know if I say it out loud, I'll be told I'm being ridiculous. But I don't think I am. (But yes, I probably am.) Circumstantial flip-switch? Yup. Oh. Right. And you asked about meds and if they can help control the thoughts. For me, yes. Not necessarily eliminate, but definitely help.

Kadesgirl makes a good point on the GP. While I agree that any psychiatric evaluation should be by a specialist (ie. not a GP), a GP is a good first step to rule out other causes for things that could cause bipolar-like symptoms, but aren't BP. The book Bipolar for Dummies (Chapter 4) gives a good overview of some of those.(And I recommend the book in general too -- highly readable and even with a dash of humor.)

Does he have depression? I ask because the things you mention seem to center on outburst type things. Assuming a GP doesn't find anything, a psychiatrist may have other thoughts on his behaviors. BP has specific criteria which he may or may not meet. There are also personality things that may be going on. Some of the stuff you mention sounds a bit possessive to me. Maybe I'm way off base here, just throwing it out there. Whatever it is that's going on, it's definitely a good idea to look into it through professionals, because the way things are currently really isn't working.

Good luck to you and in getting him to get it checked out. (the above insight has been helpful for me --seeing that the "current strategy really isn't working". Maybe he can acknowledge that. Wouldn't approach it in a moment of heat though.) Good luck!