It definitely sounds like you have some variation of BP. I don't believe that you need to exactly fit the DSM criteria to have BP.

I go from significant depression to hypo-mania; and the hypo-mania doesn't last long...and I crash shortly after it ends.

This site has some good info on BP diagnosis, and Dr. Phelps explains a lot about the Bi-Polar spectrum.

http://www.psycheducation.org/depression/frameset.html

Welcome to PC, and give the meds some time to work and your body to adjust to them.