Managing Bipolar Disorder

Hang in there! I hope you get the right, or a combination, of medication to help you,
I have been bipolar for many years. However, I was not diagnosed until the year 2002 and then I was started on Abilify. This addition has stabilized my condition.
Good Luck, I hope this helps.

@moustaphagueye, welcome. There are many different types of depression. See this Mayo Clinic article that includes bipolar:
- Understanding Depression https://careinfo.mayoclinic.org/mh-depression
- Understanding Bipolar https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/women-health/understanding-bipolar-disorder/

Have you been diagnosed with bipolar or is this something you're researching to learn more about?

I feel ya I've only been diagnosed for a few years but its been with me all my life luckily I'm a high functioning disaster area so with meds (very important) therapy you can learn to manage your symptoms. It can be done but you need to commit to self care
I know what people say has little impact really but I hope it help to know you are not weird, broken or alone
Take care of you 🙏

Moustapha, I’m concerned that you’re speaking about a psychiatric diagnosis but you don’t say whether you’re in treatment, on medication, every been actually diagnosed by a psychiatrist? And you speak about addictions you’ve developed due to chasing a cure for your sadness. Fortunately or unfortunately many of us have walked that path before. I presume you’ve not sought treatment yet? I realize currently it is difficult to get appointments for therapists after Covid but you need to begin the process. If you have health insurance use your benefits and if not get Medicaid or go through the government exchange. You cannot get better on your own and the longer you wait the harder it gets. Please take care of yourself. You can also use the new 988 mental health line the government setup to speak with a counselor if need be.

Hi Colleen
I am 62 and and am taking Lexapro for anxiety & depression. Moved about a year ago. Have a 2 year old pup. My husband has heart disease. My sister is 12 years old than me and has bipolar… so I worry… about hubby etc…

Hello Colleen
No, I haven't been diagnosed yet. I took a test online and everything matched with what I'm enduring. I'm afraid of being diagnosed. I don't want my family to feel like I'm crazy, I don't want them to feel different about me.

@moustaphagueye Getting an accurate diagnosis can be a big stepping stone in addressing your mental health. It can be a big relief to know that you have something concrete to work with. And this goes for physical health, too, you know!

I "get" that you don't want your family to feel like you are crazy. It would really be in your best interest, in your own peace of mind, to know what is going on. Are you concerned your family would not support you? I hope you make a decision to have a professional evaluation done to understand what you are experiencing.
Ginger

Hi Ginger
I think you're right, I need professional help. I can't handle this on my own.
Thank you

Hi Ginger, quite a while. I know you are right. This short piece reminds me I too need help.

@moustaphagueye Take a big deep breath, and release it slowly. Recognizing you need help beyond what you can do alone, is a big step. And remember, it's okay to ask for help. That's something that is so difficult for many of us. I count myself in that group.

Please let me know your next steps to be evaluated, and what your professional team advises you, okay?
Ginger