Posted by redmaryjane on March 29, 2004, at 9:19:22
In reply to Re: That's not the whole story » jane d, posted by greywolf on March 29, 2004, at 9:06:56
>>Over-diagnosing BP (if that's happening) or "over-claiming" of BP by those who haven't been diagnosed undermines public respect for the seriousness of the disorder and may diminish the likelihood that a person actually suffering from BP will get an informed and compassionate response from his acquaintances.<<
I agree with this. It is frustrating for me because I think for a long time both my family and husband did not believe that I am bipolar.
I think they thought it was an exagerration on someone's part. This was painful to realize. I think now that they've seen me go through some mixed episodes and seen some of the dark sides (suicidal/destructive tendencies), they realize it's for real. I have been honest with a few colleagues at work (because I had to take a lot of time off) and even now I still get crazy jokes from them. They're not that funny to me. Especially on the days that dsyphoria slips in and I feel ultra-agitated.
Lamictal is working wonders for me. Paxil is also. What effexor did to me is make me much more than nervous...I stopped eating, I grew suicidal and I never slept. That was an inkling of a sign of bipolar but no where near a determining factor to a true diagnosis.
I understand the nature of this discussion though.I just think it's unfortunate because those of us dealing with this diagnosis do struggle so much just to get through each day.
One last thing...another reason I think people didn't take me seriously for so long is because I've been such a good actress my whole life. I have perfected the art of faking a good mood, putting on a smile and moving on. Thanks to my good stoic-Germanic father...I was pushed to "grin and bear it." He uses alcohol as did his ancestors...I use mood stabilizers. Whatever works I guess.
poster:redmaryjane
thread:328931
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20040329/msgs/329778.html