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?
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.
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.
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.
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)!!!
recognizing/admitting MANIA behavior?
Linear Mode
