can i ever get a life

[granny128]

hi,
I am often low more than I am high, But either way the mood I am in effects the way I think about things. The things I do and say when I am low effects the way I think when I am high, For instance when I am high, I think 'what was I  I getting all upset about' and if I think too much on that, I go low because I might have do or said something that I now think I shouldnt have done. I hope you can make sence of that?
if you didnt what I mean is what ever mood I am in I do things that make me worry when I am in the oposite mood.
The truth is I just want a life,

[LeftCoastChick]

Sure you can, I'm living proof.

I had more depression then hypomania. I was cranky but not hyper but they are still trying to tweek the drugs with that. I'm  depression free  95% of the time, and it's usually pms and hormonal fluctations that cause depression in me..  IF you don't have a psychiatrist you need one, unless that option is absolutely not possible. I would read up about the meds.  you should learn about them and which ones they use first. They call these "Frontline Meds". I'm on Lamactil, I switched over from a SSRI, Cymbalta, which made my moods worse not better.  It's been a godsend to me, and quite a few other folks here. You also need to get a med for hypomania, which can be feeling cranky, paranoia and overreacting to situations to mentions a few. (which I've had myself, but didn't realize that was part of BP until I was diagnosed) This is the link, it's chock full of info about BP, and I mean tons of info, it's the main guide I use for information. Some links don't work, but most do:

http://www.psycom.net/depression.central.bipolar.html

[monkeyc]

There are a few basic questions.

1. What does your psychiatrist say about the current problems?  He or She should be able to advise you of courses to move on.

2. Are you on an anti depressant drug?  

3. What mood stabiliser are you on?

4. When was your medications last reviewed - if its been awhile its a good idea to get it done.

5. do you see a psychologist or therapist?  Talk therapy is very useful in learning how to manage BP and live with it.

Yes you can have a normal life I used to and hope to stay alive long enough to have one again :)

[lagatta]

I've found that Lamictal (200 mg) has helped tremendously.  It's taken away my depression so I can function normally.  I no longer rapid cycle and my moods are more consistent.  I've also designed a program for myself.- routine, proper nutrition and exercise.  Have you though of joining a support group?  You might want to see if there are any for Bipolar or for that fact anything that’s applicable to you.  Honestly, you can have a normal life.  It is possible.  I'm a living example of it.

[bernie40]

Are you currently taking any medication or seeing a psych and therapist?  It may be that your meds aren't working as well as they could.  Also therapy can help you learn to manage these thought processes so that you don't dip or high too far.

With the right combination of treatments yes you can have a life.  It can be hard and painful getting there but it can be done with lots of support.

This is a good place to start with getting support because we've all travelled a similar path.  You don't need to go through it alone.

Welcome to the forum :-)