@ FeelingHopeful - well anyone that I have met that is hypomanic is really a great deal of fun. They are charismatic and tend to be quite happy and full of life. I myself love to be hypomanic. I enjoy it. I am full f energy, surrounded by my friends, and am generally having a good time. I also attract people to me.

(now, when a hypomanic person starts taking risks and getting irritable and bossy, those are signs that they are swinging up into a higher zone. That is the signs they may soon need help.)

People in my support group have all talked about this and how the euphoria of being hypomanic is very pleasant. We've also generally agreed that we seem to attract people to us when in such a state.

My friends have gotten used to the fact that I am not always this way. They also recognise the lows - like right now. Primarily they make sure they get me out of the house.

You will find a special person who will be prepared for and understand the times you are one or the other. In my opinion however, hiding it will eventually cause a problem. At some point you would have to explain yourself. You certainly don't want to surprise a date with odd behaviour.

Do you work? That might be the doorway to explaining your situation.

I've also used humour. Once, when I did something silly I blurted out 'oops, I've just had a bipolar moment' they naturally laughed at which point I said 'seriously...'

I've never had anyone get upset, no one has walked away. The usual reaction is to simply ask what it means.