What is the first thought you have when you’re manic? What is the first thing you say? What is the first thing you do? What signs do you see first? Here are mine:
Say: I’m not manic am I?
Do: Drive quickly while listening to loud music.
Think: God, it’s so fantastic not to be depressed!
Then, after these typical behaviors I think- oh no, this is so unfair. And I go into treatment mode.
I have a lot of different bipolar mania patterns. Here’s another one:
Say: I really need to go out tonight and have some fun!
Do: A Mojito looks really good!
Think: I feel so much better and I’m looking really fantastic tonight.
The above sounds really normal- but when it comes after a depression and feels way too good, I know it’s hypomania. I also know that if it’s intense and really short lived with a lot of regret in the morning- it’s hypomania.
How about you?
Julie
Related posts: bipolar disorder mania: more signs! | Bipolar Mania: subtle signs! | Bipolar hypomania: It’s 11:45 Pm and I’m ready for bed, but let’s go party! |


I would like to know–not out of voyueurism, but out of wanting to understand my own duaghter– what kinds of things the hypomania makes you do–like sexual things or saying inappropriatate things–is that what you regret?
I can totally relate! Today I was doing that driving fast with loud music thing and feeling all jazzed up. . . earlier in the day I was way low. I always think it will be so obvious to “see the signs” it is not and I have to be more aware. Thanks for being there!