Here’s how the Mayo Clinic’s website defines Bipolar disorder:

“Bipolar disorder, formerly called manic depression, is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).”

But that’s just the broad overview of the phenomenon. What’s it like to actually live in it? Or to, say, sleep next to it? These anonymous contributors give us the details.

10. “Please be honest”

It will save a lot of heartache in the end.

Source: Whisper

9. “Doesn’t want to believe it”

It can be a hard thing to accept, but there is still no shame in it.

Source: Whisper

8. “I am scared”

It’s a natural thing to have that kind of apprehension.

Source: Whisper

7. “I don’t totally understand her”

The fact that you’re trying means a lot.

Source: Whisper

6. “Nothing is perfect”

That sounds incredibly difficult to work with.

Source: Whisper

5. “Currently manic”

You have to deal with both sides of that coin.

Source: Whisper

4. “Makes perfect sense now”

All the pieces fall together in hindsight.

Source: Whisper

3. “He feels nothing”

What a terrible dichotomy to be stuck on the horns of.

Source: Whisper

2. “I don’t know what to do”

Nobody should feel compelled to endure abuse, no matter what the root causes might be.

Source: Whisper

1. “It changes each week”

The future is even more uncertain.

Source: Whisper

Remember, if you feel that you or someone you know needs help, never be afraid to ask for it. There are more solutions out there than you may think.

Do you have experience with bipolar?

Tell us about it in the comments.