[UpDownAround]

I was reading another thread about how bad mixed episodes are and it got me thinking/wondering about the ones I have had in the past. They would occur while depressed. I would feel the beginning effects of hypomania - the grins and the giddiness - but it wouldn't intensify and only lasted a few minutes. Then I was depressed again. But it wasn't a hellish experience. It was more like trudging through bitter cold with wind whipped snow stinging your ears and suddenly finding yourself strolling on a tropical beach for a few minutes and then just as suddenly you are back in the blizzard. Yeah, it was kind of a bummer I couldn't stay at the beach longer but even the short interlude helped to remind me that life isn't always so gloomy.

Anyone else get that?

[Shazerac]

Yea I get that sometimes.

[WildcatVet]

Yea, it's not like my really bad mixed episodes...but like you say...just a hint of better times. Just wish it didn't flash by so quickly...I feel like chasing after it.

[UpDownAround]

It seems like it is the only kind I get, but I am not sure I would notice irritable as much because I am grouchy when depressed anyway.

My inappropriate speech can happen up or down, but I think that is more general social awkwardness and not recognizing what others don't like to discuss or not realizing I am making an observation others find odd and/or uninteresting. When hypomanic, it makes it even more likely I will say things and I will throw arrogance into the mix. Anyway, it isn't a sign of hypomania fo me.

[xRavenx]

Yes. I've had really severe Mixed Episodes (which are the worst), but I do get states of mind where I have symptoms of depression and mania occurring at once, without it falling into the most severe category. I'd consider it a Mild Mixed State, although it still feels worse than mild when it is happening. Usually this state leads to even worse things, unless my medication is adjusted. Even if it's just a PRN plan temporarily in place, to help bring me back down.

When I am at my worst point, I am losing touch with reality and feeling the world will end. During a mixed state where I am not quite at that point, I still feel irritable, depressed, experience racing thoughts that interfere with life, anxiety, reaching my breaking point, but not at the stage of falling completely apart yet when in a milder state. I do get a lot of intrusive thoughts and become impulsive during mild states though. It's when I'm barely holding on, but still trying my best to get through the day, although I am very much in pain still. Seasonal patterns sometimes have an effect on me too.