I have mixed episodes too. They often start out manic and then turn mixed. I don't like them, and I'm sure everyone who experiences them feels that way.I don't seem to be catching the manic episodes before they turn mixed. It's very difficult for me. I wind up in the hospital and hate it in there. I just spent 18 days this semester (I'm a grad student) in the hospital. I know it was best for me but I can't stress how boring & difficult it is to be there. I wish I could just catch these manic episodes (they feel really good) before they get ugly. I think I'm manic now so I should call my doctor tomorrow instead of waiting ten days to see him.
Good luck to all of you. You guys sound like you have a lot of insight, which is good.