I'm quite used to my manias feeling different to normal moods. I pace a lot, feel distractable, and frequently feel a strong dizziness the moment before I act impulsively (Usually that is too late, but at least I see it coming).

Today I got a real fright. I had been manic for 4 days, but the overwhelming drive seemed to be backing off. I was driving carefully when suddenly I put my foot flat around a corner and shot in front of someone. It was like some evil creature took over the car for that moment. I couldn't believe I did that.

When I do stupid things - hurtful things - I feel like a hopeless and worthless case. Depression can slow me down, make everything seem like an impossible effort, but nothing hurts and drives worthlessness as much as real world failure with hard evidence and consequences.

Does impulsiveness come with warning signs for most people, or does it sneak up on you?