What symptoms did you have before you were diagnosed?
I had severe postpartum depression which then led to being suicidal one minute and very happy the next. This happened many times during the day. I was diagnosed with major depressive disorder at the time. This lasted for 33 years until I was diagnosed with bi-polar disorder.
What events led to your being diagnosed bipolar?
My mother, aunt and uncle all died within 8 months of each other. I began to not sleep, wrote notes while driving, spent more money than usual and was generally manic. I felt that I was in a fast-forward mode and couldn't stop or pause.
I was being treated for neurotic tendencies by my therapist until it was he who finally discovered the bi-polar problem. He realized that I had mania after the death of my mother and referred me to the new psychiatrist, thank God. I am now doing very well on the medication regimen which was prescribed.
Lessons Learned
- I would have changed doctors much earlier, like about 30 years earlier. I knew I needed help when I had the postpartum depression, but the meds didn't help. It was wonderful being pregnant because most of the symptoms disappeared. I still had some depressive moments, but the progesterone helped me feel much better. I kept seeking help when my family doctor didn't know how to treat me. It took so many years to finally get the correct doctor and medication, and it was a living hell until that time.
What Is Your Current Diagnosis?
Yes, I agree. Hindsight proves to me that I was indeed having hypo manic episodes along with the depressive episodes.
Do You Agree With the Diagnosis? Why or Why Not?
Bi-polar II.
Additional Thoughts
I am so grateful that my doctor immediately diagnosed my bi-polar and was able to prescribe the perfect meds. It took awhile to take effect and we fooled around with doses, but I have been very successful with altering my mood problems. I no longer have suicidal tendencies or hypomania.
