Hi, lgreen...welcome to PC!

Yes, it is very common to be diagnosed with depression when one is in fact bipolar...I'm surprised that no one has picked up on this, as you have the family history of bipolar. In my own case, I was treated for depression for 8 years before being dx'd as bipolar, which is about average...this really is not surprising, since the vast majority of bipolars are depressed much more than they are manic or hypomanic. Often one doesn't recognize a manic or hypomanic state when it does happen. You're just so happy to feel good again, it doesn't occur to you!

Currently, there are two main bipolar diagnoses: Bipolar 1, characterized my manic episodes, that is, intense agitation that last a week or more, and bipolar 2, which is mainly depression punctuated by "hypomanic" episodes. They are less severe than the classic manic episode, and generally don't last as long. So, yes it is possible to be a "little" bipolar, especially BP2.

As to what constitutes bipolar, I could run it down for you here, but if you will follow the "Disorders" link on the menu just above and then the "Bipolar" link, that will take you to an excellent listing of symptoms and criteria for diagnosis.

I would suggest that you call your doctor or psychiatrist and ask him\her about your symptoms. Also, get from them or download a "mood chart" which will help you track your ups and downs and help your doc see what you have been going through. Also, you may want to take one of the quizzes here on the site...they are not 100%, but they can give you a pretty good idea of what is going on.

And remember, everyone here at PC is here to help you...take advantage of it!

Wishing you the best,
DJ