Thinkmaster, your sexist comments and complete lack of knowledge about bipolar disorder, your remarks, your blatant stereotyping . . . . rather offensive and full of ignorance. I find it odd that you have this encounter with someone and come directly to a mental health forum to ask about it. That just doesn't seem like it would be most people's first line of action in that kind of casual situation.

I have bipolar disorder. I have been married 30 years. I have held a full-time job as a teacher for that entire time. I am highly intelligent, decently attractive for a 54-year-old mother of three solid and responsible sons. I sing with a major symphony chorus. I'm considered by most people to be calm and kind, patient and pleasant. People around me wouldn't know I have bipolar disorder if I did not give them that information.