Posted by D minor on January 1, 2005, at 16:52:16
In reply to Re: Dysthymia versus Bipolar type 2 » Mr.Scott, posted by SLS on December 30, 2004, at 4:31:06
> Hi Scott.
>
> It sounds to me as if you might have "double-depression", wherin major depressive episodes are superimposed upon a chronic dysthymia. Both aspects of this mixed condition are capable of producing irritability as a symptom. Dysthymia tends to be stubborn to treatment. You might want to look into trying amisulpride or perhaps even Abilify. If you use Abilify, be prepared to experience some anxiety or irritability initially.
>
> I don't think you have bipolar disorder. You really have to express a hypomanic episode to be eligible for this diagnosis. Episodes can last for as few as 5 days, though. Doctors seem to be quite fond of this diagnosis lately.
>
>
> - Scott
>
Hi to both Scotts!Mr. Scott, I know how you feel about being confussed about diagnosis. I was initially diagnosed with unipolar psychotic depression. But a new doc recently diagnosed me with BP. I don't know if I believe him.
The main reason for my doubt is this: I have never been "hypomanic" for more than a day at a time. I felt really "high" for a day, then really depressed for a few days with a few normal days in between for about two weeks. When I started Depakote that all stoped. So my question to SLS is, can you be hypomanic for just one day? I know the DSM says 5 days. Or does duration not matter when you're rapid cycling?
Thanks,
dm
poster:D minor
thread:435630
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20041228/msgs/436424.html