Anyone with Bipolar spectrum disorders?

I think given that you were diagnosed and started meds at age 69 damage to internal organs for you is not a major concern. If lithium helps continue with it just have your bloods tested as per instructed. I personally wonder about medication I take them but I feel worse but given I have been psychotic on three occasions now it is simply a case of have to or I wont be here. This illness sucks beyond belief taking all your hopes and dreams with it.
But work with your psych and find what's best for you. As said though you are 69 so damage to kidneys I think is a worry you can forget.
I also agree about mindfulness - it sucks and I find it really hard work however others get some real help from it. KEEP FIGHTING, DONT GIVE IN TO THIS AWFUL ILLNESS.

Hi,
I apologise if this isn't the right place for a new post,
I was diagnosed with Bipolar 2 more than 20 years ago. I also have ASD and cPTSD.
My new(ish) psychiatrist is really questioning my Bipolar diagnosis, mainly because she says that hypomania must involve uncharacteristic, poor choices eg going and having a one night stand (I'm married) or spending $5000 on clothes in one go etc.
I am an introvert and a very self-controlled (too much so) person.
I've certainly had VERY strong desires to have sex with other people when elevated which I've avoided, but it took huge amounts of energy and lots of talking things through with friends and psychologists. Also, when I was young and high, I did do some very inadvisable things but I have learnt about myself. I'm 50.
I also have ME/CFS so my energy is very limited. It sort of all happens on the inside.
So I guess I'm saying I disagree with my psych.
Any Thoughts? Thanks, Zel.

Hello @zeldazonk and welcome to Mayo Connect. You sound like you have gained a lot of insight over the years.

It is important to advocate for yourself and it is OK to question a doctor's diagnosis (either for physical or mental disorders). Have you considered getting a second opinion from another psychiatrist?

Also I don’t really know how this platform works, Theresa replied but I can’t seem to find a way to contact her, can anyone help.
Thanks

Also my main issue is I am 55 myself and have bipolar and I also have severe tinnitus, medication that effects or lifts serotonin makes tinnitus in my left ear scream so loud that I can’t stand it. My bipolar is out of control with rapid mood swings and suicidal thoughts but I can’t find a mood stabiliser that doesn’t effect me. I am going to try volporate it is my last chance. You have no idea how frustrating it is to know there are medications out there but it’s impossible to take them.
I have also totally withdrawn from society, I once had a huge group of friends but anhedonia has sucked all life from me I feel nothing any more.

Hi @peterears

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I hope that helps!

@peterears Hello. I am 53 years old with bipolar. I know how frustrating it can be to find the right type of medication that doesn't exacerbate other health conditions. Although I don't have tinnitus, I have taken medications with other side effects such as weight gain. I also know how it feels to want to withdraw from others. Living with bipolar can be very isolating because it is not something that other people can relate to or understand. I hope that the valproate works well for you. Finding the right medication is important and can make all the difference.

Thank you, it is supposed to be a good mood stabilizer.

You sound Bipolar to me based on what you shared. But, I am a not a doctor!

Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connections. I have had bipolar disorder for 40 years. Was only diagnosed in 2002. Started on Abilify..a miracle drug for me!
You will find many friends and supporters here!! Wise information and caring new friends!
Hope this helps, Pat!

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...