I was off meds and out of treatment for six years. I had my moments like you said but if I waited long enough they passed. I wasn't suicidal and I didn't hurt myself. I actually disparaged my old pdocs for dx'ing me with BP. Thought they were all idiots.

And then it all came back.

But my pint is even if it never gets that severe it doesn't mean you don't have it and it doesn't mean you need meds and therapy to function. But honestly it depends on how you feel. If it doesn't significantly impact your life the. There's no reason to carry around the label. But also remember that even if YOU don't see it, your friends and family might.

It doesn't have to be severe to count.