What symptoms did you have before you were diagnosed?
Depression, mood swings and extreme irritability.
What events led to your being diagnosed bipolar?
I'd had several other diagnoses already, but getting married and then immediately moving to another state pushed me over the edge. I had my first manic episode while in the process of moving and had to be hospitalized.
Lessons Learned
- I would have tried harder to find a doctor who would listen or observe me long enough to make a correct diagnosis. The week I spent in the hospital after moving seemed to be the help I really needed, although I believe the extreme change in my life pushed me over the edge. I think I was just teetering before that.
What Is Your Current Diagnosis?
I am currently diagnosed and treated for Bipolar I.
Do You Agree With the Diagnosis? Why or Why Not?
Yes, because now I'm on the right meds and feel so much better.
It also explained a lot of my behaviors and problems with relationships. It has really made a difference in my life.
Additional Thoughts
I had been told I had clinical depression, borderline personality disorder, PTSD and generalized anxiety disorder for years before I was diagnosed.
Being given the correct medication has made my life easier and it has improved my relationship with my husband and other people.
