Mine took ten years to diagnose correctly. I was first diagnosed with GAD, then MDD, and after years of ADs and associated kindling, bipolar. As a fellow "high-functioning" individual, I know the difficulty it is at times to see the reality of the troubles.

That being said, you've pretty well documented here some of the highs and lows in your experiences. I would think if you're able to communicate those with your docs, they'd be able to reach some conclusion one way or the other, especially if they think meds could help you. I would emphasize the highs, as those are the times most likely to get you in trouble. The racing thoughts, hypersexuality, alcohol and drugs, lack of need for sleep, and and whatever else seems a bit abnormal in your life when compared to the "norm." If you can also express the cycling into lows, that's helpful. The key is to be honest and up-front about the troubles.

At times when I'm with my doctors, I tend to downplay my symptoms or pass them off as no big deal. It's always to my detriment. I'm sure it comes out of a desire to present as normal as possible, for whatever reason. You're intelligent and articulate, and I suspect you may be able to do the same thing if you're not actively in an episode.

I really wish the best for you, and that you're able to get your symptoms resolved promptly. Whether that is meds, therapy, or whatever else you need - I can't say which. It is clear, however, that you're struggling with something, and the real route that has worked for me is to go through the medical system. There are people out there who are ready and willing to help, and it's incumbent on us to ask for the help.