Bipolar Diagnosis

[LisaT]

Hi

Last year I had a manic episode with psychotic features. I ended up in hospital for 3 weeks. I have been experiencing a low since roughly July last year...no pleasure in past activities, lack of motivation, little energy, etc This week I went to see my psych and asked him straight out what was wrong with me. He told me I had bipolar 1. He adjusted my meds which I hope works. My episode was triggered by long term high stress. Has anyone else been diagnosed with bipolar?

[Chris_B]

Hi Lisa,

I have been diagnosed with bipolar. Having a stable routine and learning to recognise and manage your triggers are the most effective parts of my management plan.

[LisaT]

Hi Chris,

Do you experience the lows. It's been horrible. Even though the meds have helped to stabilise me I've really struggled. It's been getting better but it's a slow process. It's hard to minimise my stress as I'm a sole parent of 2 daughters aged 16 & 21. My 16yr old has mental health issues also which has been very trying. I spoke to my psych about this...how am I supposed to get better if my high stress situation is ongoing? And he said I have to learn to manage it. My prognosis is good. I'm trying to be positive. I know I can live with this illness as long as I find the right med combination.

[Chris_B]

Hi Lisa, yes, for me lows are far more of an issue than highs. Medication is only part of an ongoing management plan, a lot of it is around learning coping skills which your psych should be able to help you with. It's excellent that you feel you are making progress, you should always give yourself credit for that and remember it during the tough periods.

"Learning to manage it" doesn't necessarily mean fixing everything on your own, but ensuring that you have enough supports in place to help you carry the load. For example, what supports does your daughter have around her issues besides yourself? 

[LisaT]

My daughter sees a psychologist and psychiatrist. I am her main support person. My psych hasn't mentioned a management plan. We discussed lowering my antipsychotic at my last app as he felt it had become to heavy and we spoke about the possibility of that not working and adding a mood stabiliser.

How long does a low generally last? My progress has been slow or so it seems to me. Even though I know I've improved I want to be back to my old self. 

[Chris_B]

Hi Lisa,

In terms of how long mood states last, it can be different for everyone. And sometimes our perceptions can colour how we think we're doing (we can actually be doing better than we think we are). I'd recommend trying some mood tracking apps or websites, try googling 'mood tracker'. This way you can get an idea of how you're doing day to day and see evidence of your progress. You can show it to your psych as well.

I'd also recommend a book 'Take Charge Of Bipolar Disorder'. It has some really useful info in it about management plans, recognising your triggers etc, and it's aimed at loved ones as well as those of us with bipolar.

You mention that your psych is discussing your meds, I take it you are seeing a psychiatrist? Psychiatrists can sometimes be more focused on the medical aspects of your care first, whereas psychologists are trained to focus more on skills to manage your moods. Psychiatrists are supposed to be able to do both, but like any practitioner individual results may vary! Don't be afraid to ask questions, next time ask your psych about what types of therapy she or he would recommend for you in addition to the meds.

[hope1978]

Hi Lisa. I hope you're learning how to manage your Bipolar now. It's a long journey. My husband and I have been to hell and back learning how to deal with this. We've now created a facebook support group for people and their loved ones who have Bipolar to chat, share, vent and support one another. It's called Bipolar Support Group Australia. Hope it helps.

[hope1978]

Hi Chris.  My husband and I have been to hell and back learning how to manage Bipolar. We've now created a facebook support group for people and their loved ones who have Bipolar to chat, share, vent and support one another. It's called Bipolar Support Group Australia. It would be great if you ever want to contribute the group. The more support for people, the better. 

[bushwalker]

Hi lisa

I was diagnosed as bipolar about 6 years. I had previously been diagnosed with depression and the meds prescribed made my situation worse. I ended up in hospital which to this day i believe has been the turning point of my life. My psychiatrist identified my condition and with a gradual change to new medication my life has never been better. There is hope, be positive and with a few lifestyle changes its all good. No alcohol, keeping fit and being active makes s good package. No regrets. Just focus and it all falls into place