It sure is a great question. I don't think I have the answer either, because I'm still unsure if I've ever had a full-blown manic episode, although I did have something last summer that went far beyond my customary hypomania. No psychosis, no acting on my wilder impulses, but I was as wired as I used to get on amphetamines back in the day, and I had NO control whatsoever as to what came out of my mouth because I didn't give a $&@!.

I'm still dealing with the consequences of that little adventure. But could I say with any certainty when what had been an enjoyable and productive time turned into a nightmare? Not a chance.

Hope someone else has more insight. I'm curious myself.