I notice just in general, there seems to be a lot of awareness and information on depression and mania, but mixed states are not discussed as frequently. I've had real severe mixed episodes in the past, and they usually hit me right after being manic.

This time around, instead of it coming on after mania, I feel that I've been going through depression, and notice some possible "warning signs" of mixed mania. Therefore, this is a bit different for me. It is sometimes difficult to be sure it's about ready to hit. Once it hits, it hits hard though, so I'm trying to be more aware. I'm starting to get racing thoughts (and losing control over my thoughts), the anxiety is getting a lot worse, impulsive behaviors and instant gratification, a lot of irritability, trouble sleeping, random sobbing, preoccupation with different things. I wonder if this could be the start of a mixed episode?

What's your warning signs when it comes to entering a mixed episode? I know there's some differences for everyone....so it would be helpful to know.