Posted by JohnL on June 26, 1999, at 19:10:07
In reply to Atypical Depression or BiPolar II?, posted by Erin on June 26, 1999, at 17:02:08
Erin, I've experienced the same. Hypomanic reactions usually occur, if they are going to occur, while getting on an AD or getting off, not so much while stabilized on one. I've had three psychiatrists, and they all had different opinions. One had a shrug of the shoulder. One said it was definitely Bipolar II. The last said I was feeling better because there were no more side effects. Imagine that, three professionals with probably 80 years combined experience/education and such varying views. Just goes to show it isn't always as clear cut as we would like. One doc told me he would be glad to somehow get me into a hypomanic stage and keep me there. The manic advantage it's called. Hypomania's not so bad. Like you said, the creativity, socialness. It's the inevitable fall that kills you! Your symptoms could easily pass as Bipolar, at least with one of my psychiatrists!Bipolar I, Bipolar II, both treated with mood stabilizers. Lithium probably the most time-tested one. Also Depakote. Others as well. More responders to your post can probably comment more. There are a couple newer ones, of which Lamictal is both mood stabilizing and reported antidepressant.
I can relate to your post. Been there. I would actually like a little hypomania right about now. Just been in the gutter too long. Anyway, others at this site are much more knowledgable on your questions than I am. Just wanted to share what I could with you, and hope it is somehow helpful. Hang in there, stay in touch. JohnL.
poster:JohnL
thread:7892
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/19990601/msgs/7895.html