A common symptom of bipolar disorder and biological depression generally is a steadily improving mood during the day. It’s more than “not being a morning person”. It’s a symptom.

I took this photo in the morning a few days ago. Unfortunately for me the original is on the left, and it is unadulterated except for a bit of work on my lips. It’s always a shock to see yourself in a photo.

I fixed up the image on the right late in the afternoon to reflect how I was feeling then. It’s more what I look like normally, I hope.

The term “split personality” conjures up all sorts of negative images that people say belong in past times. I like the term because it speaks truth to me. I have three personalities that are discrete and very different, and although two of them aren’t healthy they are still very real.

I’m interested to hear other people’s views. Do you view your depression or mania as a separate personality? Do you separate your illness from your true self, or does it define the real you?