From personal experience? Yes. I was into my early 20's when having my first "manic episode". We can seem so convincing to the general public that we're OK. We talk real good. Exude an air of confidence that would make many believe we could do, most anything. An impossibly positive attitude about life and the world around us. We become highly energetic during flight times.Require next to nothing when it comes to sleep We would prefer to be awake during manic operations because we could cure the entire world if we only had enough time. Food? We don't need it. Many of us during depressive phase use it as a stop gap to procure weight loss. And we're exceptional at it. I once lost over 90 pounds in a period of about 3-4 months one year. When we realise we're transfering from depressive and into hyper-manic phase, we try to get our lives back. Happiness and bliss is just around the corner. Our thoughts become vivid, our speech shows a spirit of "Wow, I like what_____ has to say." We realise that we are going to be some happy campers for the next 3, 6, or 9 months, so we might as well get used to being on top of the world again. In fact, let me build a bridge so I can get there even quicker.
The opposite end of the spectrum is absolute dejection of spirit. When we fall, if there is no medication to cushion the weight of plummetting to earth once having touched the stars, we leave a gaping crater wherever it is we land. The momentum from the fall back to earth, and reality having its way with us again is emense. We crawl comfortably into our shells. We will refuse the world, refuse even God, to come out. We have hit bottom and there will never be a time when I was more happier than when I was in rare form, a little greater than the angels themselves. Will I ever go back to catching a glimpse of that happiness? When I felt better than just, average? When I looked so good and felt five times better? I think I'll just sit and watch TV for what's left of my life. Sigh!!!
Somewhere in the middle of these two extremes, you may find yourself normal, one day. Or at least as near normal as can be without the shifting from one extreme to the other. Medication is certainly helpful. Manic phase is fun, exciting. The world looks deceptively more inviting, and in many cases, it truly is. Some of us, like myself have been able to function in the world without the continuous benefit of medication. I've not been on any in over 10 years. I've not had a manic episode in over 20 years. I miss being able to touch the stars, but I'll settle for the moon for now. Besides, the fall from heaven is a lot easier from there.
Manic Depression need not be the "Death Sentence" many would attribute to it. Look back in history and you'll have a surprising cast of characters who, too, were of like mind. Folks like Albert Einstien. Its because of him that Bi-Polar Disorder, or the less Politically Correct terminology "Manic Depression" has been coined "The Genious Disease". Abraham Lincoln, Van Gough, and too many to list. You may find that "Little Johnny" might be the next one to help cure AIDS or Cancer, or become the next to explore space or find some fantastic new creature in the ocean, or whatever. With the proper guidance and assitance in this time of need, he can still go far. Take courage. Those with Bi-Ploar Disorder are some of the most gifted, creative and talented persons that you will find. Look at me. I'm one of them.
