Hi, And welcome back!I was checking to see if I remembered you and it turns out I do.But I seen this post and noticed not many replies.I’m of course hoping you got your answers but …To answer the question-’Can an event make a person bi-polar,the answer is ‘no’ but you did hit on something there.A traumatic event can trigger it,exposing it.That’s not to say it’s necessarily a bad thing.To explain I tell of how my husband leaving me turned out to be a blessing in disguise.Part of that blessing was the depression reared it’s ugly head but in the long run It helped me and generations to come tremendously.It goes to show how our weaknessess can be our greatest strengths.I can’t say that I’ve written a book about it but I just may.#2)’Is there a way of knowing if you’re bi-polar, without seeking professional help? I do believe a person can get a general idea ,in fact they may have all the clues but unconsiously want to face the fact.Which is normal,no one wants to explore the possibility of having a mental illness, at least not until they are ready to,But knowledge is power and gives peace of mind.#3)Is there any way of lessening the symptoms other than professional help/drugs? I try and recommend the combination of self-knowledge,medical knowledge,talk therapy( support from all sources possible),meds if needed,the basics of taking care of yourself(exercize,eating right etc..) and Prayer.