recognizing/admitting MANIA behavior? - Bipolar Disorder Message Board

StarCat · 09-13-2002, 02:39 PM

Hi everyone,

I'm just wondering, for anyone who is Bipolar I, or who knows someone with that dx (I am only Bipolar on a technicality, I don't get manic) - when you are in a full manic state, do you know you are manic? Can you tell that you are, for example, behaving in a rude manner? Or that you are being louder than normal?

My boyfriend is in a manic state, and is clueless...so I'm just wondering if it is too much to expect for him to be able to recognize it himself?

Thanks,
StarCat

bev52 · 09-13-2002, 03:37 PM

Star,
I've had people tell me, (doc included), when I was manic...but I didn't have a clue. My hubby detects it and usually says: "slow down, I can't understand what you're saying" and "I'm not deaf, bring it down a few notches." I don't see myself talking that fast or loud.
If we go somewhere, he can't keep up w/me and insists that I slow down. It bores me to death...I feel like I'm moving in slow motion and want him to keep up with me.

Does that help answer?
bev

09-13-2002, 08:37 PM

Hi Star,
I know when I am in a manic state but I get louder because I think no one is really listening or can really hear me. I talk a lot faster because I think that if I slow down I will not be able to get my point across. I am not trying to be rude, I just somehow feel that the louder I am, the faster I talk, that I will make more sense.

I have learned that if I can slow myself down before I get to that point that it is better of course, for me and everyone else, but when I'm there, it's harder for me to calm down but I can calm down. It just takes me awhile.

I have told my family & friends that when they notice that I am talking louder & faster to just CALMLY point that out to me so I can slow myself down. That doesn't always work but I am getting better at it.

Hope this helps you.

Brenda

bev52 · 09-13-2002, 09:16 PM

bconn,
I think you explained it better than I did. I REALLY am not 'aware'- until someone points it out to me.... then, I become 'somewhat' more aware but not totally. I do try to slow down and bring the pitch down but if I don't watch it...I'm right back up there and as much as I hate to admit it....it kind of makes me mad to be corrected - just not - as much as it used to. I sort of resent anyone 'interrupting' me when I'm in that state,(even tho' I know they're right), but it stirs some anger because I'm so intent on whatever it is that I'm trying to say.

09-14-2002, 06:59 AM

bev2,
I guess the trick for us is how we are told to calm down. If I feel that I am being criticized, I will not calm down as quickly because then I am guilty of being "bad" - again. Same thing as being told I am wrong. I'm not sure why that happens but if I am told in a non-threatening manner (calmly?) I do much better and am so much more tolerant. Then I can control myself. I also know when I am wrong and can accept being wrong but not if I am on the defensive... Hell of a problem sometimes, huh? Now if I could only figure out who's problem it is! (That statement is with a smile)!!!