I think the diagnosis of 'bipolar' is often too stigmatising for people to accept. And also, often the manic phase that some people experience doesn't involve what most would think of as 'mania', so they think they don't fit the category.
However, if you look up 'cyclothymia' - a mood-disorder syndrome that is at the lower end of the BP spectrum, you'll see how the mood swings are often present in otherwise high-functioning individuals who are cyclically 'normal' as well as up (irritated) and down (depressed/hopeless).
And you'll also see that the cyclothymic person often feels 'stuck' in a situation, and so has to exit in order to try to relieve the anxiety/hopelessness they feel.
For my money, the symptoms of cyclothymia fit my H to a 'T.' Although unless the person themselves can see it, I agree with you, there's nothing you can do about it.
I'm still at the stage of wondering how to broach the topic with my H in a way that will allow him to listen. Any suggestions gratefully received.
