Bipolar or just anxiety disorder?
92587
Talk to you psychiatrist.  The most notable clinical feature of bipolar disorder is dramatic mood swings.  As compared to an anxiety disorder or depression where your moods will may be impacted by external factors, but will otherwise remain relatively level, in bipolar disorder patients cycle through periods of mania and depression.  But you should really really talk to your psychiatrist - I assure you he or she knows a lot more about it that I do.  Also, antidepressents effect your mood (obviously - that's the whole point), and may be responsible for some or all of you symptoms.  Your doctor may want to try a different anti-depressent or take you off them entirely for a while before deciding on a new diagnosis.\n\nPS. Anti-depressants are a standard treatment for anxiety disorders.
1084330
I read both of your questions, Rosey. It is too bad that you were not diagnosed correctly to begin with. A good psychiatrist would not have put you on antidepressants without a mood stabilizer if your diagnosis was Manic Depression (Bi-Polar Disorder). \nI think the drug you are inquiring about is LAMICTAL, an anti-seizure medication. You can read about it at : http://www.lamictal.com/epilepsy/hcp/indications/faq.html\nI don't think this medication will cause bloating, and most people have no problems with it. You have had a bad reaction in the past and it is causing some anxiety, I think. What I know for certain is that if you are Bi-Polar you need a medication. Living without the meds is miserable. You won't know if Lamictal is a good medication for you or not unless you try it. The Depakote you were on does not usually cause serious stomach problems, so maybe you have a sensitive stomach. \nYou have discovered a lot about yourself : 1.you cannot take antidepressants without a mood stabilizer because it triggers the mania, 2. you have a sensitive stomach, 3. you are currently anxious. .......  Start keeping a daily diary about how you feel after you start on the Lamictal. If you have adverse reactions, call your doctor. Take your diary to your doctor on your next appointment. It will help the doctor assess your progress. There are other anti-convulsants that are available if this one doesn't work, and as a responsible adult you will be able to help your doctor make informed decisions. ...... Good Luck ! I understand EXACTLY how you feel !
965784
I don't think there's anything "wrong" with you in terms of like being crazy or something like that.\n\nThe rapid changing of your mood suggests that there is something chemical going on, for sure.  To go from something called "mania" (which can feel like happiness, or too much energy, or anger/rage, can't sleep, or can't stop moving) to something called "depression" (which can feel like sadness, but not always - can be low energy, loss of appetite, irritable) is definitely chemical - like your serotonin levels are off or keep cycling low to high.  People who have bipolar disease have this happen but their cycles are usually days or weeks or even months long.  If it's happening in the course of a day for you, it is probably something else.  But this is very treatable, usually with a medication.  Your regular doctor will probably be able to help you with it.
592319
Bipolar Disease runs in my family, so I always get a little concerned when my moods shift suddenly.  In your case, I would definately suggest talking to someone...doctor, friend, family...its always best to let someone know where your mind and heart are at.  Hormones can also play a big part in your emotions, especially if your menstruating or are pregnant.  I dont know where your from, but Im from MA., and its been raining here for weeks on end.  The weather can also have a strong effect on your moods.  Be well sister!
706930
Considering a majority of people (close to 75%) are diagnosed WRONG, the medical community is now learning that environment, drug and alcohol experimenting and hormones (if you were diagnosed before 20 years of age) are triggering bipolar symptoms. Just because you have symptoms, and not 100% honest with a therapist, doctors will diagnosis bipolar.\nIf you have a family history, you can learn the behavior from that person, but not necessarily inherit the gene. The medical community is doing more research on that. \nBipolar is one of the most misdiagnosed of mental disorders, but one of the most social acceptable. What ever you do or learn, YOU are responsible for your own thoughts and actions and don't let anybody else tell you otherwise. You are not alone, you aren't the only one who may think the way you do.\nI learned that through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and a 12 step program. 20 years lost to being mentally ill and all it was (for me) it that I was an alcoholic with puberty growing up in a "not so good" environment. I am now off all medication, dealing with life on life's terms and feeling better than I had ever imagined possible. 20 years of being told never, and today I have made it reality.\nDon't waste 20 years! Get into CBT with a therapist and be 100% honest with them about your thoughts and behaviors. If you are a true bipolar or not, this therapy will make a world of difference in your life.
66685
Absolutely! Oftentimes a bipolar individual will be aware of the change between manic/depressed phases ... but during the "healthy" phase, he-or-she doesn't feel the need to do anything about it, and during the depressed phase, the person is too depressed to get help. If you recognize that pattern happening in your life, make an appointment with a PhD or a counselor. Getting a professional diagnosis is the first step to getting balance in your life!\n\nBe aware, though, that regular mood shifts are normal in most people, especially as the seasons turn or holidays pass. Most people can be treated without medication by adjusting things in their home and work environment (i.e. better lighting, adjusting diet or exercise routines, etc.).
391145
OCD and Panic Disorder are 2 of several Anxiety Disorders. OCD has to do with obsessions and compulsions, and Panic Disorder is getting panic attacks. Bipolar and Major Depressive Disorder are 2 types of Mood Disorders. In Bipolar, the person shifts between depressive and manic episodes. you can't be diagnosed with MDD and Bipolar at the same time. ADHD has to do with symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. There are overlapping symptoms in each disorder you mentioned and a psychologist should be able to differentiate between them using various methods. You can have more than one diagnosis, but not all of those at the same time, as I mentioned.\n\nFor some reason people started mentioning schizophrenia, which is none of the disorders in question. Wierd.
612464
you haven't described anything that sounds like a manic episode to me - bipolar is NOT what most people conceive of as 'mood swings'. You haven't described anything that sounds like mania. It's more than just feeling cheerful - if someone is manic, they will talk a mile a minute and might go and do all sorts of crazy things, assuming that they can do it automatically, like go and gamble away their lifes savings because they're certain they've found a 'code' that will win them millions of dollars, or they'll commit crimes because they don't realise that what they're doing is wrong at the time. And then they come down and often feel really terrible about what's happened. You haven't described anything like that.\n\nIf there has been a tragedy, it is quite normal that you could be having problems .\nReally though, you should seek out professional help. Why delay and be in pain for longer than you need to? As both a mental health professional and a sufferer of depression, I can't recommend going and seeing a psychologist enough!\n\nIf your mum isn't a professional, then she doesn't know what is wrong with you most likely. Only a professional can make any sort of diagnoses, but far more important than a diagnosis is helping you to cope better with life. It doesn't matter what you have a potential diagnosis of really.
984502
My first suggestion would be to visit a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist that specializes in mood disorders.\n\nI am Bipolar and I've been under the care of a Psychopharmocologist who specializes in mood disorders and a CBT Specialist as well.  In addition, I've spent the last 6 months educating myself on the disorder, treatment and drugs.  I also attend group therapy twice a week in a clinical CBT group and also attend a BPD support group.\n\nBefore I started getting treatment, I was living a life full of rapid cycling (vast change in moods, can be hourly/daily/weekly) high risk behavior and never really knew who the real me was.  So you can say I was having an identity crisis and was suffering from bipolar depression.  \n\nSince being treated, I've been able to manage my condition and live a very productive and healthy lifestyle.\n\nIt's difficult to self diagnose, but if you're looking for an opinion, I would suggest visiting sites with good information on mood disorders and perhaps some discussion boards.\n\nI would also be happy to help if you want to send me an email.  \n\nHere are some helpful sites\nhttp://www.dbsalliance.org/info/aboutmood.html\nhttp://dbsa.invisionzone.com/index.php?showforum=6\nhttp://www.crazymeds.org/\nhttp://www.crazymeds.org/cgi-bin/yabb2/YaBB.pl?board=bipolarquestions\n\nGood luck
308620
That's WAY too many meds at the same time.  You should only be on one or two and lithium isn't for either disorder.  It's for bipolar disorder.  I think it's time to stop seing all three doctors and get another opinion at least until you have a diagnosis that matches one.
908860
I have an anxiety disorder and I worry about pretty much everything. But if you're worry about going crazy you probably aren't crazy. Just relax! Maybe you're anxious like me, but try and talk to someone about your feelings. I dont really know whats going on with you but take care of yourself.
1040300
You need to talk to your mom and tell her that the problems are back and you want some real help. I know it's tough, but you won't get medical treatment at your age without parental consent. Tell her and get yourself some good help. Yes, it does sound like Bipolar disorder but you should be checked for Aspergers Syndrome as well. Good luck to you.
489257
Bi Polar disorder is characterised by 'mood swings'. In my case I did not sleep well for about a year then I stopped sleeping completely for about 8 days and I began to lose 'insight' - I began exercising in the middle of the night, had loads of energy. Didn't eat much either and started getting some strong 'notions' that people around me couldn't relate to. I talked a lot more than usual and it was hard to follow me, so I am told. This was my 'manic' phase. It was pretty scary. I then became severely depressed. It took me along time to find 'normal' moods again. It takes patience and a good deal of getting to know yourself better. (foods and drink that help/hinder - )\nI struggled with anxiety for years before this occurred. I have been on both Lithium and depakote. Am on (epilim) which is very similar to depakote now (it is easier on my stomach than Dep- but not licensed for BiPolar like Depakote- They are both Valproic acid essentially). It is hard to say how efective it is. You will put on a little weight but it can really help if you are prone to getting 'manic'.\nGood luck. If you want to chat further feel free to contact me and I would be happy to share any relevant experiences with you.
513253
personality disorder and being bipolar are closer then most ppl think. With BP you have very Hi emotions for a few days (sometimes a few hours) and then crach in to a very dark depretion. A personality disorder is more like a social disorder.( I don t know much of it tho)More like being withdrwn due to Anti -Socializum  and having a pproblem showing true emotions and personality.It is a hi and low game also depending if ppl are around ,who thay are, and if you are by your self.Were BP is NE were and Every were you are.
1106593
Yes, if you don't get treatment for it you could make it worse. The bipolar state puts stress on the brain and other parts of your body. You could end up in a vegetable state,
694910
In children, it is often difficult to distinguish between bipolar and ADD/ADHD, so it may be worth getting a second opinion. If you haven't read it, can I also suggest you get a copy of the Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide (Amazon link below). It may also be worth looking at http://www.crazyboards.org as you will get some good advice there.
683866
That normal.\nBut if you think you ahve an anxiety disorder, check it out with a doctor. I can totally relate. There are many types, and treatments can help you over come unnatural anxiety in your life.\nCheck out the links below.\nBut dot try and diagnose yourself, go see a doctor.\nI did find a self test you can do. You could print it off and bring it to a doctor.