Bipolar knowledge and treatment questions

[Guest_2350]

Hello,

I have just been diagnosed with bipolar and I am seeking some advise on the condition. It feels like a slap in the face and I think part of it is due because I know nothing about bipolar - I've been trying to read a bit tonight.

How did you find out you have bipolar? What was your life like - your childhood, teenage years? Do you lead a "normal" life from the outside? What therapies and treatment options have helped you?

Did you struggle to recognise and accept that you have bipolar? I can see patterns of high energy states - compared to other people - and extreme lows, but I have a family, job,... And a mixed bag of trauma... Do I have to compare myself to others? I've always been like this, so it feels weird. I do know I struggle with feelings. Do ADs make it worse? I've been feeling more and more lost in the past few months since starting to take them.

Can it feel like you hit a wall? If I compare myself 6, 12, 18 months ago I have deteriorated a big deal. Can depression last that long? Often I don't know myself. Do you sometimes feel that people or things can drive you nuts?

What are good sites, groups... To get support and information from?

I would really appreciate your input.

Thank you, Yggy

[Chris_B]

Hi yggy, we've got quite a lot of threads on bipolar from various users - you might find you get answers quicker and connect with others if you participate in discussions that are already happening. Below are a few recent ones, but if you use the search function you should also come across some others:

Bipolar?

Newbie with bipolar

First time forum user recently diagnosed with bipolar

Just diagnosed with bipolar

Bipolar diagnosis

Bipolar type 2 depression questions

​Bipolar type 2 and anger management

Bipolar and have 3 kids with mental illness

Recent diagnosis of borderline bipolar

[Guest_2350]

Thanks Chris,

I've looked through a few of them already. I feel a bit let down by a health system that just tells you and sends you home. I was so angry yesterday evening and last night. I have checked out one of the books recommended on one of the threads, but will obviously need time to read it.

I made myself go to work this morning and already feel a little less distressed. If I've been like this all my life, surely it can't be that bad?

Thanks, Yggy