Bi polar depression

[curvybird]

Does anyone know anything about it, or have experience of it ? My sister has been saying for a while now that she thinks I may have it x

[Schutzengel]

I wonder what makes your sister think you may have bi-polar disorder. If you suffer from mood swings, from feeling depressed to feeling sky high, it's a possibility. But you would realise this yourself, as the two moods are quite marked. I hope this isn't the case but if you are in any doubt it would be best to get it checked out with your GP, as it can be managed with medication to get you on a more even keel.

[curvybird]

Thanks 4 ya answer Schutz, I will admit I swing from feeling so bad, my brain feels absolutely useless, I don't want to talk to anyone,stay in bed, I feel lost,lonely,desperate and suicidal. But a few days later, nothing outwardly has changed but I am absolutely euphoric, I skip around the house singing and feel on top of the world. Does that sound bi-polar to you ?

[Schutzengel]

Yes love it does. Please get it checked out with your GP, it is not unusual, and many people go through experiences like that, but as I mentioned earlier, the extremes of both moods can be levelled out with suitable medication, and you would feel much happier overall. I'l be thinking of you.

[The Reporter]

Curvybird... I am going to echo all that Schutzengal has written above... please go to see your GP - describe how you are feeling and how it varies (ie the swings from high to low)... S/he is the best one placed to help you get decent treatment and as Schutz says, you will feel a heck of a lot better when you've got some decent meds to regulate these moods (plus you will feel more in control of life in general !)

[PeteHull]

Yes, I agree, my son suffers with the condition and it affected him so serverely he lost his career after 10 years service in the navy.
It isn't a condition you can cope with on your own and you certainly need to get it diagnosed, you will then get the correct treatment.

I wish you well.
Pete

[PeteHull]

One thing also you can do, if you google Bi-polar disorder you will find a mine of information available, I didn't realise just how common the condition is.

once again, best wishes

Pete

[khoey]

i dont have any advice because its better you go and talk to your G.P,have a look at this link

http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mentalhealthinfoforal l/problems/bipolarmanicdepression/bipolardisor der.aspx......xxx

[khoey]

this should work

http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mentalhealthinformati on.aspx

[curvybird]

Oh my goodness, I am overwhelmed with this response and now don't feel half as isolated and lost. Didn't think anyone would get it. Thankyou so much everyone xxx

[dabees]

If you have questions, but are afraid of going to your GP at the moment (understandable) then have a look at Stephen Fry's
"The Secret Life Of A Manic Depressive" Forum.

It has some great advice for people that are suffering from all types of depression.

Link: http://www.stephenfry.com/forum/viewforum.php? f=3&sid=7996fbab4529115bf9f8a0083cfa07ec

[wolf63]

Bipolar disorder:

When you are depressed it is like being in a dark, scary place and as you say - your brain is useless. The thought of being depressed again fills me with dread.

Being manic is like being on a speeding rollercoaster and life is fun and you become more and more reckless. Sometimes I suffer hallucinations - seeing weird and wonderful things.

I was diagnosed with it in 1996 and was prescribed lithium and spent a few weeks in hospital. These days I seldom feel well but the medicaion has stopped the extreme behaviour.

What about this - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclothymia