I am diagnosed with bipolar 2, which was changed from bipolar 1 after a long period without full blown mania. I was 14 when I recieved this diagnosis and I never understood why. At that time I did not recognize any mania, but was severely depressed. I think they came to this conclusion based off feedback from my mom. 

I still do not recognize mania in myself, other than a few specific instances which were during severely stressful periods. My periods of "mania" also coincide with active drug use. 

I am also diagnosed with cptsd, generalized anxiety, sensory processing disorder, and autism. I'm wondering if this cocktail of conditions is somehow mimicking the behavior of bipolar and I've been misdiagnosed, again? 

I have been told so many things were "wrong" with me over the years and finally did a comprehensive diagnostic assessment and have confidence that I found the answers to what is going on with me.