intro...and a question

iVillage Member
Registered: 08-14-2006
intro...and a question
3
Fri, 10-13-2006 - 4:16am
Hello! To introduce myself, My name is Charlotte and I am a 20yo female. I was just recenely diagnosed with Bipolar I (rapid cycling), Agoraphobia, and Panic Attacks. I am currently taking Abilify and Lorezapam for my panic attacks. Does anyone here take Abilfy? It seems to me that not many people do for some reason. I love it, the only thing is is that it makes me sleepy. Another question I had...when I was diagnosed only about a week or so ago my next app isn't until 3 weeks. I would really like to maybe see him or a therapist maybe like once a week, or join a support group of some kind. Do I have to go throught my pchyatrist to do this or can I go through him and also go to a therapist/support group? Thanks for any help!
iVillage Member
Registered: 07-22-2006
Fri, 10-13-2006 - 7:23am

Hi Charlotte,

Welcome to the board. I just started taking Abilify on Monday. I only take .5mg at night. It makes me tired but I still don't sleep through the night. I haven't noticed too much of a difference yet, but I haven't been on it long enough. I am tapering off of Topamax. I also take bupropion (generic wellbutrin) and xanax for anxiety.

Most psychiatrists do not do counselling but may have therapists in their group/practice you can go to. You can also see someone of your choosing anywhere else. If you look in your phone book for your local mental health agency, they should be able to tell you of local support groups. Your local hospital may also have a support group. If you do a web search for your county's branch of NAMI, they will have support groups along with classes, etc. that you can attend.

Nice to meet you!
Peg

iVillage Member
Registered: 05-22-2006
Fri, 10-13-2006 - 8:56am

Welcome!
I once had a bout with agoraphobia many years ago and it was horrible. Good luck in finding some help. We are always here to listen!

Pug hugs, Kelli





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iVillage Member
Registered: 04-06-2005
Fri, 10-13-2006 - 9:01am

Hi Charlotte and welcome to the board !!

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