Hey,

Maybe a strange question, but how did you realise you were bipolar? I know, maybe it's a dumb question. But for the last year or two I've really begun to wonder if I'm bipolar or something! I've looked at the general 'characteristics' online and I would say I feel I could be (rapid-cycling!)... I'm curious to know how you concluded/realised for your self... I sure as heck don't feel it's productive to talk to people I personally know about it as they'll probably just dismiss it. So I'm hoping people here can chat please!

Anyway, I've really not been sleeping well, in fact, I rarely ever sleep well. I do get tired, but usually not tired enough to fall asleep (often takes 1-3 hours). I'd generally describe my mind/emotions like a yo-yo/rollercoaster.

I'm on here right now typing away, looking for feedback, because I've had a day which has reminded me that something feels frustrating with how I feel my brain is generally working... I've had a day with loads of ideas flying around, hyperactivity in my mind, going on and on like my brain is pedalling really fast on a bike that I can't stop. This happens quite a lot, to the point where I become self-concious and almost like I should hide sharing my rampant enthusiasm/ideas with other people. Of course I have many low points too, all the time. Generally I see no trigger for those highs or lows... they just seem to jump in to my brain and it happens. I have also had a long bout of depression a few years ago (diagnosed/therapy), but as I've grown older I've also realised that it seems also surrounded by very high points (flighty creative thoughts/ideas) and mental/verbal hyperactivity. I am a creative person, so maybe this is just part of it... but I don't know... something always just feels weird and I can't even remember what it's like to feel mentally 'balanced' - if such a thing even exists - my mind just teeter-totters all the time...

Anyway... your input would be appreciated.

Thanks!