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Anyone with Bipolar spectrum disorders?

Mental Health | Last Active: 6 hours ago | Replies (60)

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@erikas

@hopalongnm3 You are looking to connect with members that are on the Bipolar.

You will notice that I added this discussion to the Mental Health group as well. I did this so you could connect with members like @marjou @lucky @sarahzx @sadeyes @hotfooted @fiddler91 have discussed bipolar disorder in the past and may wish to weigh in on the conversation.

Below I have linked a few previous discussions related to bipolar disorder. If you haven't already done so, you may wish to scroll through the previous posts and read the comments and suggestions.
- Lithium: Haven't been taking it as I should. Odd side effects https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/lithium-1/
- Bipolar and ECT Treatments https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/bipolar-and-ect-treatments/

I'm wondering if you can give me some background? Are you currently in therapy and what is your therapy history?

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Replies to "@hopalongnm3 You are looking to connect with members that are on the Bipolar. You will notice..."

I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 1994. Was on lithium for years, which resulted in side effects or thyroid disease, kidney disease, psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis. Tried to change to vampiric acid and it made me suicidal. Mellaril and Elavil gave me paradoxical reactions. I was on therapy after my initial diagnosis for 7 months inpatient and 3 months outpatient. I have a husband and friends who know my story and are my personal support group. I go to a psychiatrist every 3 months and am stable...more or less. I am presently on Oxcarbazepine and Lamotrigine. I take Synthroid for the Thyroid issues.
As a result of my diagnosis I went back to graduate school and got my MSW and licensure and worked for 24 years as a clinical social worker.
Two years ago I was diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer (Stage 4). I cannot find support group in Tucson for men with prostate cancer. My PSA and testosterone levels remain good. Despite positive self-talk, prayer, medications and support of my friends and psychiatrist I find I have constant depression almost everyday over the long-term side effects of chemotherapy. I cannot do the activities that made me feel alive before diagnosis due to constant fatigue, lack of energy, needing to stay out of the sun etc. I don't like feeling sorry about myself but...

I have recently been diagnosed with Bipolar 2. I am on Lamictal, 100 mg. will be increased again in 2 weeks. I have never heard of Bipolar2. I'd like to hear from others with this disease