I mean, that’s when the greatest threat of self-destruction happens. I spend without hesitation and make other impulsive decisions. And the only time I’ve tried to kill myself was when I was manic and paranoid. Years of terrible depression never got me over that line.

I’m managing much better now.

That sure isn’t how I’ve heard people describe my manic episodes. They usually went for terms like “terrifying” and " dangerously reckless". I appreciate that the meds prevent me from scaring my loved ones.

Well, even hypomania (let alone the full blown stuff) is not exactly “excess happiness”. Even if you’re lucky enough to at least get some euphoria out of the deal, there’s likely some cost…