Hi everyone,

I was just wondering if you could answer this question honestly for me, as i dont really know too much about it..
:confused:
do all of you take meds, or go to a psychiatrist/psychologist or both, or neither?

Im just wondering as my bf has recently been diagnosed with bipolar, even though we have known for a while, and he doesnt want to take medsOR go to a psychologist/psychiatrist. Im just wondering if its worth convincing him to go on medication or if they are useless anyway, and if councelling may be the better option..

Thanks in advance. :wave:

I really think you should both watch his behaviour and learn everything you can about bipolar. I am bipolar, and let me tell you we are weird to live with. This does not mean that it is not somewhat fun and cool too. We tend to be a little more creative and do not like to take a typical approach to almost anything. also he should learn what his triggers are. for me it is sometimes long lines, babies crying or even people who have so many requirments to go any where.
I do think that most bipolar people should be medicated at least untill they figure out their cycles. Usually the sufferer will still be aware of the cycles even with meds. I still have problems but it seems the meds make them easier and quicker to get through. a lot of the problem is just learning to accept and deal with it. it also helps to have good people around. bp tend to pick up on bad people very fast, so getting away from bad people is important. remember that this persons brain functions differantly than yours, but certainly not any less. good luck and be patient. -j-

Probably almost all of us are on meds and we see a psychiatrist for that, because psychiatrists can prescribe meds and psychologists or therapists can't. The usual situation is for the person to see the psychiatrist at regular intervals for 15-minute "med checks" to either adjust their medication and/or get prescriptions. Some people also see a therapist/psychologist for "talk therapy" to help in coping with life issues, etc. There are also support groups that some people go to. If there's one in your area, it might help you to attend. It's not unusual for partners of bipolar people to attend to get more info and support. Good luck and good health to you and your boyfriend.
wobbly :cool:

I am both on medicines and I talk to a psychiatrist. I also have a social worker at school but I don't talk to her very often. I think both talking to my doctor and the meds are necessary for me to get better. Good luck with your boyfriend!
Kristina :wave:

It always makes me a little angry when I hear some people say meds are always bad. I agree that some bad doctors may over medicate patients and there are some of us with mild enough BP to justify not taking any, but what I know for sure is that medication (and it takes many tries to find the right ones) is the only thing that worked. I am so thankful for them and wouldn't stop taking them for anything. The hard part is finding what works and going through all the side effects and bad experiences of those meds that don't.

I tried talk therapy twice in the past and it did nothing for me, because I was NOT on appropriate medication and couldn't really have a meaningful conversation. Now that I am much better, the counseling will be a help though.

The second post blew me away! I have been bi polar for years.I too have had to find my triggers.Mine are noise,dealing with money at all! And BAD PEOPLE! I thought i was just a jerk all this time. I couldnt understand why others could just ignore it.But I Like POINT like a bird dog when i get around someone who guves me bad vibes.I have been member of many board groups online and left becuase one jerk would come out and i would instantly feel it.The otehrs around me would admit this person was a jerk but not understand why i just couldnt ignore it.Reading your reply was a breath of fresh air..LOL
I agree with all that has been said. I went to a phyc. years ago. I sat and cried the whole time. Finally after 3 sessions i asked her the question that really was on my mind.AM I CRAZY? she said no. So I went to my doctor got on lithuim and have been fighting to stay well ever since.Getting some men and some women to accept it a chemical thing and they need help is hard.Which is odd since if you had high blood pressure,diabetes or any other imbalance youd get right in.. I wish you well and i will leave you with this advise for what little its worth..LOL Living with a bi polar person can be a challenge.Dont ever lose you in the process.If he gets hard to live with put a mirror up to him and tell him how much you love him but HE is having a hard time living with himself and if he wont help himself then he must accept the counsequences.....My hubby got me help and stood by me.Had i of choose not i would not have blamed him for leaving..
willow