I was just diagnosed BPII last year at about this time.... And same as you, the medications are a life saver. I've had a couple of bouts of depression, but those were really caused by things happening in my life. My problem, is when I get hypomanic, I turn into a super-grouch. I just lost my job in september because of it.

The key I think, is to be able to recognize when you are having your swing and be able to get some distance from things as a buffer....

sigh... If only