When you say "episode" are we talking depressed/manic rhythmic cycle, or an actual fullblown relentless manic/depressed, nervous breakdown, crazy-making type episode?

I ask because members post alot about "episodes" that seem like cycles so I'm not sure how to answer....

Oh well I'll just answer for both

I cycle every other week or so, some mood cycles are more pronounced / severe than others.

My episodes, I have one every 3 months or so, on average I have about 2 huge ones a year, where I am convinced a lobotomy is my only hope. This is of course minus any triggered episodes, just my usual unprovoked bipolar pattern.

Also, I've only ever had 3 episodes that were stress induced (death, unemployment and employement). 2 of them I had while medicated. None were sparked by alcohol or drugs, just my mind unravelling thread by colourful thread.