Posted by Dinah on October 7, 2001, at 3:07:16
In reply to Re: Bipolar Disorder without Mania-Wendy and Roo, posted by tina on October 7, 2001, at 0:01:57
Tina:
Many psychiatrists appear reluctant to give a diagnosis. My current pdoc is very vague, and only mentions depression and anxiety. I have to back in to what he thinks by what he prescribes and looking up what code words he uses. I still have no idea.
I am no expert, but I think that mania or hypomania doesn't have to be of the good sort. It can be characterized by irritability, anger, and an agitated "jump out of your skin" feeling.
In any case, diagnosis probably doesn't matter as much as finding a good doctor to help you feel better. Do you have a university close by? The best pdocs I have ever found have been affiliated with a university. I've also had very good luck going to public-health type seminars and following up with a doctor who seems to have a good level of knowledge. That would probably take too long, though and is better for changing pdocs than finding one. Finally, don't be afraid to interview a few if you have to. I don't know what referral or health insurance concerns are in Canada, but I will tell you that I bit the bullet and paid out of pocket myself to find someone I liked.
I wish you the best of luck, and hope that a few (OK - several) bad experiences don't stop you from looking for a good one. It will be worth it.
poster:Dinah
thread:11562
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20011006/msgs/12206.html