My Mental Health

[HalcyonicTrust]

For those who don't know, I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder back in early 2007 when I was 18 (I'm now 22).

I was put on an anti-psychotic, a sleeping pill and 800mgs of Lithium mood stabilizer. I recovered from my 'episode' 8 weeks later and I was then let out of hospital.

It wasn't long at all before the sleeping pill and anti-psychotic were no longer needed, however, for the next 3 years I was still on 800mgs of Lithium, it was then reduced to 600mgs to see whether I still needed it (because my episode might have been just a 'one off').

6 months later I was reduced to 400mgs lithium.

However, a few days ago I got really quite depressed and then suddenly anger came out and then I got really high and happy.... so I agreed to have my Lithium put back up to 600mgs.

I still feel kind of funny and it's apathy I rebel most against - so I'm kind of struggling against my apathy and I think that still affects my mood a lot despite my meds. I do feel considerably healthier again now though.

So, for anyone who wanted to know, there you have it and....

...I just wanted to point this out in case anyone thinks I'm acting a bit odd - more than usual I mean - on these forums too.

[KichigaiNeko]

Hey DEvie. Sorry to hear about your struggle.... but then ALL of life is a struggle so hang in there buddy!!

Glad to hear you are feeling better. Depression can be a positive in as much as it is a warning that something is not quite right.

Laugh alot and enjoy what you have.... works for me.

[HalcyonicTrust]

Depression isn't the only problem - it's also the mania.

[thesummerqueen]

"DEvie". Heh. I like it.

[big squeezing hug]

Keep truckin', hon.

[Dotard]

[Watson]

I used to date a girl who I'm fairly certain suffered from Bipolar Disorder, and she was generally unmedicated. So I have an inkling of understanding when it comes to the subject, but not nearly so much as you must have. I certainly hope that you can work things through, DvF. It sounds like you've got a good handle of control on it at the moment.

[Ubermensch]

Leben ist Kampf. Fight apathy, or don't.

[OnlyNatural]

I understand all too well. And I think it's great that you brought it up, more mental health awareness is always a good thing. You're definitely not alone. I struggled with severe OCD and depression between the ages of 10 and 20. I'm 24 now. Just wanted to say that I get it, and if anything I respect you even more for your disclosure. Good to hear you're feeling healthier now

[downbeatplumb]

If you one day decide the 'beard but no moustache' look would be good on you ask for the medication to be upped.

Seriously only the derranged have that look.

[thesummerqueen]

(21st January 2011 21:27)downbeatplumb Wrote:  If you one day decide the 'beard but no moustache' look would be good on you ask for the medication to be upped.

Seriously only the derranged have that look.

[burst of laughter at work, making everyone turn around]