Junerain thanks for the link to cognitive distortions. I am trying to get better at recognizing those when I have them.

bpcyclist I do feel that this is the case for me sometimes, that my emotions are governed by my mood. When I was very irritable while having a mixed episode I tried very hard to not take it out on anyone and mostly succeeded, but I don't think people totally got it when I tried to explain. I wasn't just slightly on edge, I felt like my head was going to explode 24/7 and had to navigate life in that state. Really tough!

Christina thanks for sharing. Looks like you have an ability to recognize the difference and that's great. I am working on it.