Wondering... - Bipolar Disorder Message Board

Amigone · 08-28-2003, 12:17 AM

Hi. I've posted briefly in some of the other boards, but I have lurked here for a while.

I was wondering, are there forms of mildish bi-polar disorder? My auntie is bi-polar, and I truly wonder, if I am as well. Thing is, I'm different then her.

She is hospitalized each november-decemberish like clockwork, except for the past two years.

I seem different though. I will be depressed, I-can't-get-out-of-bed, nauseous, self loathing depressed for a few days to a week, and suddenly, I'm hyper as hell the next day, and it lasts for a bit shorter then the sadness, and then it's back to being sad. I seem to live for the hyper periods, though it drives my parents crazy. I am talkative, and hyper and can't sit still.

I'm scared to go to the doctor. I had PTSD after being in a bad boating accident, and watching my best friend die, and was on anti-depressants for almost 2 years. I hated them so much, I didn't feel like myself. I dont' want to be diagnosed with anything, because I'll feel like an outcast, like I'm different...

So, I know you're not doctors, but what do you think? Should I be concerned? Should I talk to someone? The sadness really really sucks when it's there but when I'm hyper, It's like someone's pumping adreneline into me 24/7.

littlebernier · 08-28-2003, 05:55 AM

I don't think what you described is bi-polar illness. I think you are suffering from depression. You should seek counseling as soon as possible, before it gets out of control.

Good luck!
LB

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When we feel love and kindness toward others, it not only makes others feel loved and cared for, but it helps us also to develop inner happiness and peace.

Pendy · 08-28-2003, 10:03 AM

It sounds like there might be some bipolar in you as well as depression. I would definitely go see the Dr. many people with bipolar disease live for their manic sessions but once they realize that they need help they also realize that they need to limit those manic days and find a balance. Check with the Dr.. There are a multitude of medicines today. You should be able to find something that helps with your symptoms but doesn't take away "you". Unless of course that "you" is your manic episodes...

HoosierBj · 08-28-2003, 11:47 AM

There are certainly different types of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar I - Classic (sounds like me, and your Aunt) Real highs and real lows with periods of normal inbetween.

Bipolar II - Deep depressions, but highs never develop into mania.

Rapid Cycling - applies to Bipolar I or II if patient has four or more episodes of depression or mania year.

Hypomania - Mild mania

Cyclothymic - mildest form, many patients never seek treatment. Mistreatment of alcohol or drugs may precipitate severity of their moods.

There's alot more information available if you use a search engine. One of the websites we can post here for information is the following .gov site...
[url="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/bipolardisorder.html"]http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/bipolardisorder.html[/url]

Self-diagnosis is really hard to do. I would suggest keeping a journal of your moods/feelings - it can help you spot patterns alot easier, especially during depressions. Going to the doctor is tougher - but if it is bipolar disorder you have to realize that with a chemical imbalance it does take chemicals (i.e. meds) to fix it!