Concerned

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-07-2005
Concerned
3
Fri, 01-06-2006 - 11:36am

I was diagnosed 6 years ago with bipolar disorder. I have been a rapid cycler (cycling as frequently as ever 2 weeks). In August I got out of an abusive relationship. I have been baseline normal since then...meaning no episodes of mania or depression. I have been functioning without any medication since Thanksgiving 2004. I've realized that I'm cycling again. I'm binge eating, crying a lot, not sleeping well, and have other of my usual symptoms. I'm wondering if this is just cycling or if its being triggered by my new relationship. I am also obsessive compulsive with anxiety disorder and dissociative disorder. Does anyone have any suggestions?

Thanks,
Stephanie

iVillage Member
Registered: 04-06-2005
Fri, 01-06-2006 - 12:03pm

Hi and Welcome !!!


Do you still have a pdoc you see?

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Avatar for missyflanders
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-26-2003
Fri, 01-06-2006 - 12:05pm

I really have nothing to offer, as I am relatively new to this, but Keli is also a rapid cycler. She should be back on the board on Monday (she does not have computer access at home). I just had a couple questions...Why are you not taking medications? Could you see a pdoc or tdoc? Does it seem to be depression or mania or both? Just wondering on those things. Maybe I will be able to help somehow. I am impressed that you have been stable for so long without any medication...do you exercise or use some sort of herbal or diet supplement or nothing at all? Just wondering again.

Just wanted to say hello and offer hugs.

Missy

 
 
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-07-2005
Fri, 01-06-2006 - 2:22pm

I quit taking meds after being hospitalized due to over medication. I lost 4 months of memory. I use behavioral techniques and lots of prayer to stay stable as needed. The current S/O is wonderful and yes, he knows all of my conditions...and is supportive of them. He can even tell when I am dissociating...He said as long as he understands the condition, he can deal with it. We were really good friends before dating, too, which I think helped a lot because it allowed him to see me for me...and he knows a lot of the stories that contributed to my 'issues' and is helping me bring them back a little at a time. I would love to go back in therapy...and will in April when I get health insurance again. Thanks for the replies and I look forward to continued input.

Stephanie