"I joke around a lot about the manic times because they're funny. We manics do outrageous things and it is part of our colorful nature"

Patty Duke is describing her experience with bipolar illness, which is identified by severe shifts in mood. She is recommending that during her manic episodes, she often does outrageous things that can be humorous in hindsight. She is likewise suggesting that this habits is part of her character, and that it belongs of her "colorful nature". This quote is a reminder that mental disorder can be difficult to handle, but that it can likewise provide humor and joy. Patty Duke is recommending that it is necessary to find the humor in difficult situations, and to embrace the distinct elements of our personalities.