Naturally, I've got to chirp up here. I feel quite differently than most of you in that I think it's quite amusing when others describe something (e.g. the weather) or another person as behaving "bipolar." Certainly they are ignorant of the use of the term, but hey, publicity is publicity. Years ago, bipolar disorder (formerly manic-depressive illness) was regarded much like tuberculosis. The mere reference to, or mention of the illness, seemed to create a fear that they themselves too might become demon-possessed. But today, the use of the expression "bipolar" is often humorous, harmless, and engaging. When my girlfriend asks me "how's your mood today?" - I often reply, "like the weather, it's sunny now, but a thunderhead is approaching."