When I'm stable I can reflect without spiralling down...and enjoy without being too up. More consistant moods just like you say susie...thats how I know.

When I 'm stable I can focus my attention on one thing at a time. I'm happy but not ecstatic; can be appropriately sad without getting depressed. I'm realistic in my goals. Good self care is a sure sign as well.

You just know and can feel it like for example you are sleeping well, eating well, doing things in your life you normally do. Sounds like you are just scared to put yourself back out there. Go for it:)

I feel like I'm stable whenever I'm not looking for.other sources of brain chemical bumps, like compulsive overeating. Also if I naturally *want* a normal bedtime.

For me stability means not feeling suicidal, thinking I can keep living without too much inner pain. Meds help tremendously. And having a stable income and a stable place to live are vital to my well being too. I eat well now and can sleep well too, doing better than I have in many years right now.

Thank you all for sharing your stories

I'm on one med called Flupenthixol. Not approved in the U.S. yet. To high of a dose i get depressed and suicidal, if too low the mood lifts but i start hearing voices leading to false beliefs and delusions. Matter of finding the right dose. Which i believe have at the moment.

idk in my mind if i am up and moving doing all the things I'm suppose to. ie work, take care of bills,house etc... annnnnddddd i'm not picking bugs off my arms and scratching my head talking to myself while gargoyles are coming through my bathroom window than I'm stable! lol

It sounds like your doing pretty good. Stable for me was not having to change my meds in a year, my mood being stable for the majority of the time, enjoying my friends, being able to work easily, etc. It's not always easy to want to jump into going out with people, that can take time.

Just keep going as you are and don't worry about the label of Stability. Try to work an outing with a friend in once a month and see if that works. But just keep doing what your doing.