it's good to know there are others out there with this same problem. Makes me feel better, but worse because I think it's damn hard to deal with.

for me:

started eight years ago and became quite a problem, interferred with my life, because I spent more time in my head talking to the voices than in this reality. I would sit in class and multi-task taking notes and talking my head. It became a fantastical world while I was manic and a dreaded one when I was bed-ridden. I used these voices in my head as an escape at times, but at others grew tired and wary as it became a full time thing. Scientifically there wasn't much to be done, anti-psychotics didn't effect them or their presence. It was my mood or situation changing that would make it better or worse. I even now have "friends" in me head that will defend me against other voices in me head, keep me mindful of my actions and words, even make sure I've taken me medication. But I've come to the conclusion it's not a life to lead to be constantly on the other side. Behaviorally, the more time you spend talking in your head the worse it could get i.e. I use to forget to wash my hair in the shower I was having such a good (or bad) conversation with the voices in my head. They have brought me comfort and I have had voices that were bothersome. Never had one tell me what to do something I would consider wrong or felt threatened, but when bipolar has you at your wits end the voice situation gets worse, it's just another thing you have to deal with. I have had external audio, visual, tactile and even odor hallucinations, usually when hypermanic and they are scary and usually more alarming. Some people try to self medicate with a drug of choice, some take on heavy prescription meds, some get lead down the rabbit hole--keep yourself distracted and keep your support network informed. I went through years of not being able to watch movies, listen to music, go to sleep, cook, read, or really focus without playing these side head games. Be careful. I consider it a gift and a tool to think at a higher level, but it's dangerous and can lead to decompensation/worse symptoms. In closing, the more you do it the more active they become, and you can find that in research with most auditory hallucinations. Good luck and if they're there they're there, don't really need a real or unreal label because you can hear them and talk to them and they talk back. If it gets bad seek help. I was driven back to the psych hospital by a voice that bothered everytime I tried to relax for over a year. At times it was like leading a double-life. But it got better as I did. I hope this goes well for you, some people respond to meds, others don't. Try and stay in control and keep doing what makes you happy.