So I was diagnosed with manic depression a long time ago, but never really realized that it was basically a Bipolar diagnosis. I don't really have periods of mania (well, maybe I do - heightened, normally unachievable bursts of productivity), but I do still struggle with periods of severe depression. Is this normal? Do other people experience Bipolar like this? I've also noticed that my depression tends to flare up right before I start my menstrual cycle. It makes sense with the hormone changes going on, I guess, but I guess I'm just curious if anyone else's experience is similar to mine.