Posted by Chris A. on January 19, 2001, at 15:34:15
In reply to Yay, found a good psychiatrist, new diagnosis, posted by Abby on January 17, 2001, at 22:40:48
> So, if you are young when you first experience depression, and an SSRI seems like a miracle in less than 3 weeks, talk to your doctor about considering a bipolar spectrum diagnosis.
Abby,
You said it so well. Amen to that statement! My health and life have been extemely negatively affected because doc after doc missed my bipolar spectrum dx and inappropriately prescribed ADs time after time. The first time I took Prozac was my first noticeable hyomanic period (I noticed it, called my pDoc and he just told me to cut the dose from 20 to 10 mgs). Then it dumped me to the very bottom and I have not been at all well since. The cycling started and has only accelerated despite ongoing aggressive treatment. Beware, anyone out there. If in doubt choose an anticonvulsant or low dose lithim over ADs. Interrogate your doc as to his or her knowledge regarding the subject (in a friendly manner, that is), and be completely honest about any personal or family history, medications ever taken (rx, OTC, "natural", herbal or illicit). Think about and research these issues completely. Your life and well being may depend on it. If in doubt get a second opinion, preferrably from a psychiatrist specializing in mood disorders at the best University Medical school available to you.
When anyone starts speaking of their antidepessant "poop out" I get scared for them. More or different ADs are rarely the answer. If I were practicing that would be a warning sign to prescribe a mood stabilizing med immediately. Sorry if I've offended anyone, but the message needs to get out loud and clear before more people die or develop increasingly severe brain disorders. I have no known history of bipolar disorder or mental illness of any kind in my family. That's just to say that you're not "off the hook" just because of lack of family history. Early depression is a red flag as well as are ADD and ADHD.Thanks, Abby! I wish you the very best of health and happiness.
Blessings,
Chris A.
(standing on my soapbox)
poster:Chris A.
thread:51920
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010111/msgs/52034.html