I can be high functioning, though I often think the meds keep me down below that level. Before I was diagnosed in 2011, I spent 15 years driving all over the US and Canada as a truck driver. I rarely missed a day of work. My bosses mostly loved me and gave me assignments they wouldn't trust others with.

So my question is -- did I become bipolar in 2011, or was I always bipolar, and just stuck in a hypomanic state most of the time that allowed me to appear 'normal' (if there is such a thing.)

My doctor believes the bipolar disorder was either triggered or greatly worsened by the PTSD caused by the exceptionally professional treatment I received from CBP officials during an illegal search and seizure when returning from Canada. It was a few days after that I went super manic, went several days without sleep then passed out in my hotel room and woke up 5150 in a hospital in Southern California.

But I question if maybe I had it all the while, and the event just triggered my most manic episode ever. Maybe I was just a 'high functioning' bipolar patient the entire time?

Thoughts?