physicistnate

I am someone with depression who has infrequent moments of extreme energy and high self-esteem. I was once told by a psychiatrist that those moments are how non-depressed people naturally feel, but I'm not used to it because of my depression and thus it isn't mania. How does one differentiate between the two and how do I discuss the difference with a physician without them being dismissive?

Thank you for your work and taking time to do this AMA!