question for people with bipolar - Bipolar Disorder Message Board

whosdatgirl_07 · 11-06-2003, 10:47 PM

Hi everyone,

I was just wondering if you could answer this question honestly for me, as i dont really know too much about it..

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.

funkybreaks · 11-07-2003, 04:02 AM

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-

wobbly · 11-07-2003, 02:08 PM

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

*music23* · 11-07-2003, 02:48 PM

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

Steve_the_elf · 11-07-2003, 05:21 PM

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.