Medication for Bipolar: Can a person heal from bipolar?

Absolutely, managing bipolar disorder effectively is possible, and there are tools and resources available to help individuals lead fulfilling lives. One valuable option to consider is exploring Medication for Bipolar, which can play a pivotal role in achieving stability and enhancing the quality of life for those dealing with this condition.

Hi Hopeful,
Based on my recent experiences, I think it may be possible for you to see a lessening of your symptoms if you tweak your meds. I was diagnosed bipolar in 2009 and was stuck at the drug buffet for a year or so before finally finding a cocktail that got me under control: Zyprexa (olanzapine) and Lamictal (lamotrigine) for mood swings, long with hydoxazine and lorazepam for handling occasional spates of anxiety. Unfortunately, I gained a ton of weight and developed blood sugar control problems, two all-too-common side effects of Zyprexa. So, I got off of it at the start of this year. Surprisingly, for the past 9 months my mood has been steadily bright: some slightly manic episodes, which actually feel really good, and zero depression! While on Zyprexa, I had also developed some obsessive behaviors, near-phobias about leaving the house, driving to unfamiliar places, my wife disappearing if she was even a few minutes late returning from errands, etc. I wasn't acutely aware of them (although my wife was) until stopping Zyprexa, when they disappeared entirely. I also halved my Lamotrigine dosage about 4 months back to see if it would mitigate an annoying itch that appeared about the time I quit Zyprexa. The itch is still there, but my mood wasn't negatively affected by titrating down. I'm in the process of negotiating with my shrink about trying to get completely off the Lamotrigine and see what happens.

!WARNING!
If you're on Z, be very careful and wean slowly. It wasn't a fun ride off for me.

Hope this helps a bit.

Regards,
Itchy

Healing from it isn't always straightforward, but it's absolutely possible to manage and live a fulfilling life. Speaking from my own experience, I've found that a combination of medication, therapy, and support from loved ones has made a huge difference. There are days when it feels like a rollercoaster, but reaching out for help, like through a bipolar hotline https://mentalhealthhotline.org/bipolar-hotline/, has been a game-changer. Just knowing there's someone to talk to who understands can provide a sense of relief and guidance.

I have been prescribed antidepressants for 40 years. I love my manic stage but my lows can be frightening. My son is also bipolar and has refused treatment for 15 years. He’s 42 and raises his endorphins with diet and exercise. We are both loners but I’ve been married for 37 years to a very social and supportive man, his father.
My son is 42 and a confirmed bachelor.
Because my grandfather committed suicide I worry, but even at my lowest times I reaffirm that I will never destroy the people around me with such a thoughtless act
When you are in that “dark place” try to get out into nature, wildlife is healing

Thank you for sharing. Hopelessness can last a long time but not forever…have faith there are so many different treatments and ways to reach out. Keep up the fight and good things will happen 🙏

Thank you!