Formerly called manic depression, bipolar is now known as a spectrum disorder. At one end is Bipolar I, which leads to fully blown mania and psychosis. This was the only Bipolar disorder I knew of before my studies. Bipolar II is a more mild form of the disease, with periods of depression and hypomania - during which I started my companies. Finally, there is cyclothymia, which is hypomania with low moods rather than major depression. Many people believe that ADHD should also be on the same spectrum.

When I learned about the other bipolar disorders, I knew instantly that this was the correct diagnosis for me. Bipolar is a progressive illness if left untreated. I have learned this the hard way, as it has taken away much of what I have ever cared about. The frustrating thing is, however, that is easily treatable with a combination of medication and therapy. I am happy to say that this is already starting to work for me, and I am getting back control back over my behaviours. While it has cost me so much emotionally, bipolar has proven an asset financially. I wrote an article recently about the link between entrepreneurship and bipolar - https://medium.com/@psychobabel/thinking-differently-neurodiversity-and-entrepreneurship-dd5f5df87fa5

If I had been aware of what hypomania is (less need for sleep, high energy, a flight of ideas, hyperfocus), then I could have self-diagnosed years ago. For that reason, I believe it is essential to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around bipolar, so people get the treatment they need sooner.

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