Posted by Scott L. Schofield on April 19, 2000, at 23:40:56
In reply to To Scott, may I call you Scott? , posted by Jan on April 19, 2000, at 11:03:32
Dearest Jan,
You have not offended me. The "Don't listen to me" was not meant to be a retort nor a sarcastic remark. It was more like a "Never mind". I was upset that I may have done something to hurt you rather than help you.
> I like mania somewhat because it is near my natural temperament.
It can feel pretty damned good. The problem is, when the dragon gets loose, it can do quite a bit of damage.
> But I'm not going to take antidepressents to risk inducing an upper.
I'm kicking myself because I forgot to ask my doctor for his copy of the J. Clin. Psychopharmacology that I was telling you about. Damn. I do know that those NIMH researchers I mentioned had become less quick to use antidepressants in bipolar disorder, especially in rapid-cycling presentations. It is nice to be able to fix everything with mood-stabilizers. However, they still use antidepressants when necessary.
> I have found in my experiences with psychiatrists that it is best not to tell them what to prescribe. They are the "holder of the prescription pad".
This is sometimes a difficult line to walk. Keep reading PsychoBabble to see how others have become pro-active in there own therapy. Perhaps you can find a balance that suits you. I'm not sure it is to your advantage to remain passive. You do have some control. It is important to communicate with your doctor and let him know what's going on. Write stuff down, and be as detailed as possible. Ask questions.
> I am "officially" a rapid cycler.
Neurontin may help.
> My dotor is a jerk, he put me on high doses of 3 mood stabilizers plus the Seroquel and made me toxic. When I called him, he asked why I was on so much medication. Also,he wanted me off the Seroquel and I about went crazy. I'm to see a new doc. soon.
> I don't put much confidence in doctors. But I'm at their mercy for my life. AND THEY DON'T CARE.
Perhaps your first doctor didn't. I know that many do. Mine does. I am lucky. If you have lost confidence in this doctor or don't feel that you interact well with him, seeking someone new sounds like a good idea.
Speak to you soon.
Good luck.
- Scott
poster:Scott L. Schofield
thread:30276
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000411/msgs/30637.html