That is a good question.

I was diagnosed in 1985. I was hospitalized from 1999-2002, a little over three years. I was further institutionalized from 2005 until released in mid-2012.

During those years, 1985-2012, I never enjoyed an extended period of stability. I have been fine, okay, even happy, now, and for the previous 16 months and, although still orbiting a manic-sphere, I think that I can say that I have achieved a certain stasis during this period. I cannot take credit for this ‘stability;’ it began with a few old friends getting me out of my god-damned bedroom, old and new friends getting me back to my god-damned bedroom and playing with strangers.

I was healed by Marvin Gaye, Nancy, Laura, Greg, Barry, Patricia (not Patty) and the kindness of strangers.

So, I am now more stable than I have been in, at least, 31 years.

I did not think to include those who knew me well in my lists of medications because I did not wish to appear needy. I felt myself to be an untouchable. I needed others, though. I needed touch. I needed to argue with Greg, I needed Laura to help me organize my life, and I needed the long, cool comfort and understanding of Nancy.

My hypergraphia is under control although I drift in and out of truly creative modes and these prosaic modes just kill me. I have the occasional god-moments but any of those listed in the previous paragraph can readily tether me.

Life is good.

That must count for something close to stability?