I've always had symptoms but all I knew was that I was just like my mom and grandmother. I didn't find out that what I was experiencing was bipolar until I was in my late 20's early 30's. All I knew and was told growing up was that my mom was whacked out erratic and I was "crazy" just like her. I hate the mood swings and the temper flares. I hate spending most of my time so depressed I can barely function. I would get rid of it in a heartbeat.