I was first diagnosed with bipolar disorder over 16 years ago, but didn't really accept it until 15 years ago. I remember when that first psychiatrist told me, he wanted to put me on a moodstabilizer. I basically said "No thanks!" and didn't return to his office until I was in a complete crisis the year later.

Q: If the very first time you sought mental health help was for depression, did you mention that first time any past hypomanic/manic behavior? Did that doctor even ask you about any other type of behavior beyond depression and/or anxiety?