I have had bi-polar disorder since I was 15 (I am 63 now) and have lived a chaotic life with medication (which I am still taking), hospitalization, ECT and psychotherapy. I have recently (2 weeks ago) started psychoanalysis, and it has already changed my life. It is a way of reflecting on the past and gathering clues to your behaviour, especially self-destructive behaviour. With insight comes understanding, and negative emotions can be identified and neutralized. Sad to say my psychoanalyst doesn't have a couch, only a chair, but I thoroughly recommend this treatment to older people who want to learn about themselves so they can get on with the rest of their lives. It is best to undertake this while you are relatively well, otherwise the illness gets in the way. Good luck to my fellow travellers!
