IMO, sometimes (sometimes) it doesn't make a difference, really, what they "say" you are. I am diagnosed BP and have symptoms of hypomania, mild depression, grandiosity, paranoia, anger, racing thoughts, rapid speech, and unreasonable goal orientation. But I also have a tendency to lean toward other stuff on the BPD spectrum like splitting. I own *something* (whatever that something is) and I try to stay centered by engaging in normal stuff like eating well, sleeping well, and working out while finding some satisfaction in it all.

I am thoughtful about it all but in the end, I just roll with it. My p-doc is the pro and I let him sort of lead the way. I am fortunate - he is good, he's funny, and he's conservative with his approach. Since there's no pathology to mental illness, I accept that some of this is a bit of guesswork. In the end, I can't be antagonistic because I'm not a doctor, I just play one on TV. I try to be mindful and work on being a better me one day at a time. I have struggled with substance abuse as well and have learned I can't let my guard down by telling myself it was all a dream or I was having a bad run. I hope I know better but every day for us is a challenge. Rock on.