Posted by rainbowlight on March 23, 2004, at 2:04:55
In reply to Rapid Cycling Bipolar II - just rambling..., posted by bounceabout on March 22, 2004, at 23:17:53
I could have written your post. I have the EXACT same diagnosis that you have. I too had to self diagnose after many years of med trials, reading, doctors, etc. I have literally tried every med available. Many, many med trials, too many to count. I now take Lamictal, Remeron and Zoloft. Bipolar people can take anti-depressants, but only with a mood stabilizer, not usually on their own. Their are some bipolars that can't tolerate them at all. Many of them make me agitated. I too had my first manic episode after being prescribed an anti-depressant without a mood stabilizer. Certain mood stabilizers will effect your moods/feelings and make you have a flat/zombie type effect, others will make you feel good/happy/stable. It is really trial and error unfortunately. But when you do get the meds right you will feel so much relief. Less anxiety, depression, OCD, better sleep, reduced cycling. All in all you will have a much higher functioning and more managable life. As far as what your family thinks I wouldn't worry so much. I have found very few people that are truly supportive of my being bipolar or of my treatment. It hurt at first, but then you get over it and learn to take care of yourself and be good to yourself. Try not to beat yourself up over past mistakes due to the illness, try to think positive about the steps you are taking to make yourself better. I wish you luck. Hang in there, it does get better.
poster:rainbowlight
thread:327238
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20040319/msgs/327278.html