I've always called them meltdowns. Certainly not the only kind, but one of them. They (and the fallout) suck!!! I can report that they've been lesser in frequency since I've been on my mood stabilizer. I'd agree with your Pdoc that it's something to consider.

I've felt like a failure over them too. And for many many years. I didn't start the mood stabilizer on account of them though, it's just been an unexpected benefit. Helped me realize that it wasn't just lack of will, personal failing, or some kind of personality thing, but the wiring in my brain (I've got BPII). Otherwise the meds would've had no effect on it, right? It hasn't totally eliminated them, but it definitely has helped. I haven't had one of the whopper magnitude of some in the past since the med. They weren't just flashes, but went on for quite some time till I was physically and mentally exhausted.

I don't know how yours are, though you've set a parameter to define them. I've not set a line so much as a rating. Flashes, for me, don't count. Hell, I'm entitled to a reaction, even if it's a bit much . But if it goes on, and has definitely crossed the line in terms of serious>severe>extreme, I'll think of it accordingly.

Hugs to you. They suck regardless of what we call them. I'm glad your BF is in your corner.