Posted by Lao Tzu on October 14, 2008, at 19:24:00
In reply to Do Stimulants Effect Bipolar?, posted by karinamarie on October 14, 2008, at 7:12:09
Are stimulating drinks bad for bipolars?
Caffeine affects energy levels. Bipolars have imbalances with their energy levels. So a lot of caffeine could theoretically worsen depressive symptoms unless you are already stabilized on medication and/or nutritional supplements. Energy drinks like Red Bull have certain vitamins and amino acids, as well as caffeine. The vitamins and amino acids are probably beneficial. If you are a rapid cycling bipolar and you don't have it under control with medication, then I would stay away from too much caffeine, especially if you have prolonged depressive cycles and low energy. However, if you are relatively stable on your medication, I don't see what's wrong with a little caffeine each day. I think it's only bad for those people who don't even know they are bipolar yet and/or have a comorbid anxiety disorder, and also for those who haven't stabilized on the right medication.
poster:Lao Tzu
thread:857364
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/alter/20081006/msgs/857459.html