I can tell you my experience. I was diagnosed as having bipolar disorder 25 years ago. The truly manic episodes have occurred in full force only very occasionally...every few years, in fact. When a manic episode does occur, I have no doubt that I have become very unstable. The main symptoms are euphoria (colors and music are VERY vivid, VERY exciting) and irritability that quickly turns to rage. And the anger I feel is extremely justified to me. (In retrospect, I am ashamed of how I behaved.)

When I am not in a mania I can be off meds and be my normal self. So meds are not necessarily a gauge for whether one has bipolar disorder.

I do experience insomnia, however, I am very tried all the time. The loss of sleep very much affects...I cannot go without sleep and feel okay.