...I know it's not the pretty picture PD but from my experience managing bipolar becomes a way of life and having 'episodes' as such, re-assigns what normal is from what it once was or what it appears to be.

it's 'normal' for a person experiencing a bipolar lifestyle to have bipolar mood swings in much the same way as it's 'normal' for a sumo wrestler to eat a horse for dinner.

I guess it's all relative...I kinda know where you are coming from and I don't want to seem like I'm minimising your fears.

It takes ages maybe or can be quick to adjust and find what works but you are still a complete person and have amazing opportunities