I have the same problem with irritability. My manic or hypomanic does not feel high or extra 'good.' I have a problem with anxiety and feeling almost itchy inside. I lash out at those closest to me and say awful things. My mind replays images that I don't want in them over and over, etc.
I have been on risperdal for that, but cannot lose the 20 pounds that zyprexa made me gain about a year and a half ago. (I stopped the zyprexa after all the weight gain) I stopped taking risperdal about ten days ago and feel weird all the time now. Anxious but immobile. But I have lost 6 pounds already. Don't know what to do. . . Thinking of trying to stay of the risperdal until I have lost the rest of the weight but this is a miserable feeling.
I don't do antidepressants either because it triggers mania. Good luck to you!