Posted by Nucking Futz on May 16, 2004, at 8:21:55
In reply to Re: Meds and Marijuana- Am I OK?, posted by starlight on May 13, 2004, at 11:10:11
Hi Everyone…In regards to smoking pot I feel that I must put my 2 cents in. I have had bi-polar and GAD for a long time (diagnosed BP first in 1986 after my first severe manic episode). I have taken a pharmacy full of different med cocktails over the years (that did not work as well as my current combo), and I added marijuana last year (apx 3 grams per week) after some intense discussion with a P-doc whom I had met socially at a conference. I had not smoked for over 17 years, but for me it has proven to be very beneficial in helping stabilize my moods. I also take 3 mg (or less) per day of Klonipin to control anxiety. The anxiety is a large factor in creating a great platform for me to either fall into a pit of despair or making a good starting point for a manic flight.
One thing I have noticed in this and other forums is an expectation that meds alone will help you get to a point that you have a “life” beyond your illness. I have found this to be untrue. You must also pay attention to other environmental factors that have an effect on your mental health. Are you eating as correctly as you can? Do you exercise? (real important for depression) Do you tolerate Toxic people in your life? (this was my main downfall) There are others, but for my first post I will try not to pontificate for too long J. Don’t take this a blanket endorsement for smoking, but it has worked better for me than almost any other substance for making me stable for over 2 years. As with any med, you have to pay close attention to what effect it has on your moods as well as SE’s, which for pot includes lethargy issues and short term memory problems. If the med does not alleviate symptoms (or in some cases creates them, consult your doc and change them) I wish you all well on your search for wellness.
poster:Nucking Futz
thread:342332
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/subs/20040409/msgs/347371.html