I also do not always respond correctly because instead of being in the moment - there, with my emotions, I hold myself back - examining the interplay between the characters and evaluating same. I tend to practice what I might say to people ahead of time, so my conversations seem rehearsed (because they are). One Doctor thought I may have borderline personality disorder along with bipolar, I don't know which of these (if either) cause me to be in a constant state of alertness to the point I am rarely natural. But I think this is why I don't respond naturally, but I try to fake it all the time. It makes me seem weird. I think 'normal' people respond naturally because their thought process doesn't have to go through a tight filter of judgement.

Does this happen when your manic too? When I am manic, I am totally free with all thought and expression. Talk about WEEEEE. lol

(oh, in addition: I make eye contact to the point of not blinking)

Best of luck to us all.