I've been hospitalized twice, at neither time was I completely honest with the physician about my symptoms. My 1st was at the age of 18, and they dx'd me with a "chemical imbalance" (is that even a dx?), then recommended that I transfer to a "1/2 way house." I left thinking there was nothing wrong with me and without looking back. Second hospitalization was at the age of 31. At that time I had not slept in 4-5 days and was having major psychosis, though I was completely unaware of this. My mom insisted that I see someone immediately The doctor diagnosed me with bipolar 1, and I complied with tx for a short time, but only to resolve my current sx's that were causing major life disturbances. But again not for a second did I believe that this dx was accurate. In fact, until just recently I was convinced that this very highly respected physician was lying for the purpose of insurance payment. I am now 45, and just weeks ago came to the realization that I certainly do have bipolar. It has been an extremely destructive force in my life, and right now it's difficult coming to terms with all of it. Now I firmly believe that my 1st sx's began at around the age of 6 or 7. That is when the frequent night terrors began, as well as mood swings, and delusions.