new here / bipolar + generalized anxiety? - Bipolar Disorder Message Board

pterodactyl · 12-02-2008, 05:59 PM

Hello everyone,

I'm a twenty year old university student ( or was until I had to go on leave) just diagnosed with bipolar disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. I've done my fair share of research, but thought that talking to real people via a message board would be a good thing.
Does anyone else have problems with anxiety in addition to bipolar? I am currently in a mixed state of sorts - mainly depressed, but above all very anxious and agitated. I cannot concentrate on anything, read a book, hold a long conversation, or go out in public places for any length of time without becoming extremely anxious. I've been taking abilify for the past three weeks with no real effects, but I'm still slowly increasing the dose. I was also just proscribed clonazepam in a super low dose for the anxiety. It seems to do some good, but not much, although it is probably too soon to tell.
I'd love some perspective on these medications and people's experiences with anxiety and bipolar.
thanks muchly,
pterodactyl.

CarenR · 12-03-2008, 07:07 AM

Welcome to the board,
hugs, Caren

Bipolar 1

Bunnylover · 12-03-2008, 03:43 PM

You sound like me, the depression is fairly well in hand, but the anxiety and agitation creeps back at the slightest provocation. Right now, it's not bad and I'm managing it with Seroquel and cymbalta (not that I think the cymbalta is doing much), but it always is just waiting there, behind the drugs. And yes, for me it shoots my concentration as well, which is very frustrating.

Part of what I've learned is how to detect when I start a new spiral, and to interrupt it as quickly as possible, with ativan if necessary, but preferably with a calming activity and a reality check.

cool9 · 12-03-2008, 04:29 PM

75% of BP patients have an anxiety disorder whether it's separation anxiety, OCD, social anxiety, generalized, phobia, etc.

dreams in neon · 12-04-2008, 04:52 AM

I experience anxiety, agitation as well as difficulty concentrating and making decisions when I'm manic.

Since I rapid cycle on an hourly basis, it's not uncommon for me to cycle between anxiety and agitation at the drop of a hat.

I'm currely taking 4mg Risperdal to help with both of these symptoms but unfortunately, I do not know if it is working since I've been sick with an upper respiratory infection for the past week. As a result of my illness, I've been rapid cycling, so it's difficult for me to know whether the Risperdal is working or not.

Once I start to feel better, I'm sure I'll have a better idea of how well it works.

I may also ask my pdoc if he can put me on an anti-anxiety med I can take when I'm manic.

I don't know if my post helps you at all, but I thought I'd share my experiences to let you know that you're not alone.