My situation is the same as both of you describe, ~ 20 years now. My mixed episodes are 'feeling down' while energeticly trying to organize, accomplish, do more etc. (Yes, I am also OCD). I also am much more IRRITABLE in mixed than in just rapid cycling states.
I wish I could help more. At least we know -- we are not alone!
Peace,
mcb27
Normally I'd be able to answer this question but for some reason today I feel like I have a mental block but I shall try anyway.
This sounds more like rapid cycling to me. I've never been good at explaining mixed episodes but I think its when you are depressed at the same time as being high, hopefully someone else will be able to explain it better and with more description than i have.
I tend to rapid cycle by the hour or the day. Other times I can go 3 or 4 days level and then have a week to a fortnight veering from one to the other.