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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
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Posted by Angielala on February 5, 2004, at 13:23:37
In reply to Help!!!, posted by Karen_kay on February 5, 2004, at 12:15:59
KK, my beautious bride....
The wonderful world of hypomania! Blah- I know what it's like. I think your profs will understand if you ask to meet with them for a quick one on one and explain that your are in a cycle right now, and are on a "high" (unless it's a psych prof, then just tell him your in a hypo and an outlet for your extra energy is giggling, and you do your best to keep it at bay. Explain that you mean no disrespect at all. You could also go to an advisor and explain and they can explain it to your profs. I had to do that in college- but more for random crying outbursts. It would have been understandable if we were talking about something heavy but they were talking about clowns....
Take it easy. Know that you do not single-handedly need to save the world, yourself or anyone. Don't think that you can make up for lost time or anything like that. When you feel that you are really worked up, step outside for some air- alone. Sit down, close your eyes. Make sure you are comfy- lay your hands on your thighs, palm upwards. Picture yourself walking down big stairs. 10 of them. take a step down, count in your head. Think 9- "let the tension go". take 9 slow, deep breaths. then envision the next step down- think 8- "let fresh air fill my lungs". 8 deep slow breaths. in through the nose, out through the mouth. Down one- think 7, "the only thing that matters now is my awareness" 7 breaths... Down one- think 6, "taking everything slowly will help my thinking" breathe. Down one more- think 5 "I'm half-way to relaxation" breathe
4- "my mind is slowing down, my mind is clearing"
breathe
3- "I feel light all around me, I feel clear"
breathe
2- "I will recognize my mania and maintain control"
breathe
1- "I am relaxed and in control"
Breathe 10 deep breaths to end it- slowly.That's one thing that can sometimes help me keep it real when I'm deciding on which country i want to save when my lovely hypo visits me.
When you start getting the racing thoughts, simply try to distract yourself- easier said than done, but really really try to throw yourself into something that interests you, but more importantly challenges you- but try to find something that you don't need to go to the store for (unless your hypo is different than mine, I need to find ways to avoid stores during the hypo, or I spend every penny I have)
I hope that helped some.
I'm here- let me knwo if you need to rant and go crazy- sometimes ranting to someone who understands makes you feel better too- and remember, you can never offend me :)
> I think I may be going to a hypomanic stage!!! And I keep having giggling outbursts during class. So much so that my profs stop class and look at me... Now, I don't want to tell them I'm dx Bipolar. But, I feel I have to explain myself. Several profs have commented on my behavior. I even called my therapist to tell him I'm in love with him and asked him to divorce his wife... And I DON'T want someone to take away my good time... What should I do to explain my odd behavior. And did I post this on the right board? And did I make too many typing errors? And are my numerous posts getting annnoying? I'm sorry... :( I try not to be annoying, I really do. Just thinking too much, I suppose. I have to email a prof tonight and I don't know how to explain my behavior.... HELP me think of something to say.. I tried to chalk it up to anxiety, but i think it's past that point now, as I'm also having racing thoughts, crossing streets without checking for cars, different sorts of odd behaviors like that.... And I also think I look REALLY beautiful!! And I really want to have sex... So, I really don't think it's anxiety any more...
Posted by 64Bowtie on February 5, 2004, at 13:51:37
In reply to Help!!!, posted by Karen_kay on February 5, 2004, at 12:15:59
...I know you had a bunch of words in between, but I couldn't resist. I hope it works that way for you, actually!
Rod
Posted by Joslynn on February 5, 2004, at 14:13:12
In reply to Help!!!, posted by Karen_kay on February 5, 2004, at 12:15:59
I have no experience with mania, but the good thing is, you know something is happening. Just having that awareness and perception of yourself is great.
Now, next steps...I would talk to your professors, but maybe craft one or two brief sentences. Memorize them maybe, as a script. I like what other people suggested. Keep it brief.
And please be careful about crossing the street! I used to just cross the street haphazardly without looking when I was really depressed, not because I was manic but because I was depressed. God watched over me and I never got hit, but if you can, could you try to remind yourself to look first? Maybe say to yourself in your head. "Stop. Look. Left, right. Cross."
We want you alive and well!
Posted by Karen_kay on February 5, 2004, at 15:35:06
In reply to Re: Help!!!, posted by Joslynn on February 5, 2004, at 14:13:12
I'm running out of people to call :( I've called everyone on my cell phone list and they're annoyed with me now. I don't have anyone to talk to anymore..... And I want to talk to someone. I took a math test today and the paper was a mess. I tried to explain to the prof and was talking so loud. I didn't realize how loud I was talking until people in the class looked at me. Also, I think I should hold off on the prof email.. I'm not exactly sure what it would say at this point. Possibly something about pink flamingoes and quarter life crises??? Maybe with mashed potatoes in the mix.... ARG!! I can't concentrate!! I can't see straight! Oh, but I feel so good :) I'm going to hold off on calling the Pdoc until I have to. I'm fairly certain I know when I need to call him. If not, my boyfriend does. Funny, but I can't wait for him to get off work. Miss Honey, will you draft me a copy of the email? I wouldn't want my prof to think I'm crazy or something...
Posted by Miss Honeychurch on February 5, 2004, at 15:48:31
In reply to Re: Help!!!, posted by Karen_kay on February 5, 2004, at 15:35:06
I'll draft a copy and post it tonight
Posted by Miss Honeychurch on February 5, 2004, at 16:11:50
In reply to Help!!!, posted by Karen_kay on February 5, 2004, at 12:15:59
Dr. X:
Please accept my apologies for my disruptive behavior in class recently. I have been on medication for awhile and it has been recently decided to change the dosage. Unfortunately, tinkering with the dosage causes some disruptive side effects. I will be contacting my Doctor as soon as possible.
Again, my apologies for any inconveniences this may have caused.
Posted by 64Bowtie on February 5, 2004, at 16:37:51
In reply to Help!!!, posted by Karen_kay on February 5, 2004, at 12:15:59
Posted by tabitha on February 5, 2004, at 19:49:57
In reply to H Y P O M A N I A causes S E X??? » Karen_kay, posted by 64Bowtie on February 5, 2004, at 13:51:37
One of the diagnostic criteria for mania is 'inappropriate sexual behavior'. Sounds like fun, but it can wreak havoc with a person's life and relationships. The problem is you tend to forget the rules for appropriate behavior, or think they don't apply or something. An otherwise decent and ethical person can behave like a creep. After the mood comes back to normal, there can be much shame, damaged reputation, and damaged relationships.
Posted by Karen_kay on February 5, 2004, at 20:52:35
In reply to Re: H Y P O M A N I A causes S E X??? » 64Bowtie, posted by tabitha on February 5, 2004, at 19:49:57
Yes, and the problem is I can't quite recall (nor do I quite care at the moment :)) what exactly I said to my therapist on the telephone, nor to my prof, or random strangers on the street. I do remember my therapist saying somthing to the effect of, "Well, I know that I could continue talking all night, but I have to work." And I think I said, "No, you have to talk to me." And I'm not embarrassed in the least! Maybe he'll want to discuss me being needy at our next session? He did say that we will need to continue our discussion at the next session, the problem is I can't remember what we were talking about!!! I suppose I could just play along... But what if I don't like what I hear??? What if I said something really bad? At this point I don't really care, but I don't really like showing my "honestly, truly, [mentally ill]" self to my therapist.... Does anyone else have this problem??? I guess I just like to pretend entirely too much. I need to grow up. Or maybe the world needs to quit being so demanding a relax a little bit? Yeah, I like that much better. The world could use a bit more relaxation... I'm not the one with the problem, everyone else is :)
Oh, and to address the issue!!! Yes, hypomania seems to cause a sort of "loosening of inhibitions." As well as impulsive behaviors. For some reason I become much more interested in sex. As a matter of fact, I can't wait to see Bubba, he's in for a treat :)
Posted by EmmyS on February 5, 2004, at 21:12:26
In reply to Re: Help!!!, posted by Karen_kay on February 5, 2004, at 15:35:06
Regarding your holding off on calling your pdoc....one sorta standard way to decide when to call is if the symptoms have escalated to the point where they are affecting job/school or relationships. Since you said your math test was a mess, you were talking too loudly, and bugging your classmates, your school is affected, right? And maybe if you've exhausted your cell phone list, it's possible relationships are being affected?
One trick to use is to check your current handwriting and compare it to your old notebooks from when all was AOK. Most folks with BP notice a real difference with they get manic-y.
I hope you will re-consider calling. Sure can't hurt anything to talk to him/her. Always better to err on the safe side, no?
Take care...Emmy
Posted by fallsfall on February 5, 2004, at 22:17:07
In reply to Re: Help!!!, posted by Karen_kay on February 5, 2004, at 15:35:06
"I'm going to hold off on calling the Pdoc until I have to. I'm fairly certain I know when I need to call him."
Karen,
I know you feel good - and to be honest with you I'm really jealous. I have straight depression, and it is - depressing. I would love to have a little mania once in a while.
But I am getting a little worried about you. The longer you let it go the harder it is to control it. I know it would be so disappointing to purposefully let go of such a good feeling, but I'm just afraid that you will be MORE disappointed later, if you don't.
Please take care of yourself.
Posted by gabbix2 on February 5, 2004, at 22:29:28
In reply to Re: H Y P O M A N I A causes S E X??? » 64Bowtie, posted by tabitha on February 5, 2004, at 19:49:57
That could be compared to telling a recovering alcoholic that you hope they lose all control and have a fabulous drinking binge.
Posted by Karen_kay on February 5, 2004, at 23:47:02
In reply to Re: H Y P O M A N I A causes S E X???, posted by gabbix2 on February 5, 2004, at 22:29:28
Gabbi!!! So, I'm trying to think of something completely entertaining or uncivil to deserve the utmost honorable and fabulous response by Gabbi... But, I must say I was so delighted to see your smiling face (or handle, details, details,,,,)
Glad to see you grace by at least once in a while.. Miss you hun. And glad to see you are still stickin it to em :) That's My Sassy Gabbi!
Posted by Crooked Heart on February 6, 2004, at 4:49:19
In reply to Help!!!, posted by Karen_kay on February 5, 2004, at 12:15:59
Hi Karen
Just to echo others. It does sound like you need to call your pdoc.
(You're about my daughter's age so I want to do what I'd do with her, i.e. drop everything and rush to protect her, whether or not she needed/wanted it.)
Please take care of yourself.
(((Karen_Kay)))
Posted by 64Bowtie on February 6, 2004, at 11:13:03
In reply to Re: H Y P O M A N I A causes S E X???, posted by Karen_kay on February 5, 2004, at 20:52:35
KK
I look at my post and am so sad that I sent it. It was meant as humor and I missed all targets by a country mile.
Ask for NO-FORGIVENESS. I do promise to do better next time and do ask you to accept my apology in light of my amends.
You can also wish me luck at improving my appropriateness and timing.
Rod
Posted by 64Bowtie on February 6, 2004, at 11:50:38
In reply to Re: H Y P O M A N I A causes S E X??? » 64Bowtie, posted by tabitha on February 5, 2004, at 19:49:57
>>>An otherwise decent and ethical person can behave like a creep. After the mood comes back to normal, there can be much shame, damaged reputation, and damaged relationships.
Tabitha,...sorta like me and my crappy attempt at humor? Yes, I am so sad I sent that post.
Rod
Posted by Karen_kay on February 6, 2004, at 12:05:58
In reply to Re: Re: I am humble an very sad » Karen_kay, posted by 64Bowtie on February 6, 2004, at 11:13:03
All is forgiven... I'm not worried about it in the slightest and never was.... I saw the post for what it was completely! No harm no foul, but as for that sex I was looking for... Hmm... Where's Bubba when I need him, huh? :)
Posted by Karen_kay on February 6, 2004, at 12:24:33
In reply to Re: Help!!! » Karen_kay, posted by Angielala on February 5, 2004, at 13:23:37
Oh no!!! Now I've offended every prof! The last on the list made a comment, when I laughed (and couldn't stop mind you) saying, "Well Karen, I will be here every night at 9 doing stand-up." But honestly folks, is there a chance they are just happy I'm engaging in class? Probably not... But I'm REALLY having a good time. And I look so darn pretty. To top things off, I'm going to see my mother this weekend! Oh, this should be grand! And folks, it's been AGES since I've felt like this!! Please don't tell me to make it go away! I won't be driving, and I only have the money in my bank account available. So, how much damage could I possibly do? I'm going to wait it out. I see Bubba Tuesday morning and will speak with him... I'll see what happens from there! Thanks all for the kind advice, even if I'm stubborn as a mule and won't take it :) But but but!!! I just feel so good!
Posted by gabbix2 on February 6, 2004, at 15:46:43
In reply to how sweet it is.. » gabbix2, posted by Karen_kay on February 5, 2004, at 23:47:02
aww, I guess I should have let you speak for yourself up there, you saw the comment for what it was.
I was just feeling a little.. protective.
Though I know I'm sure, you could take off one of those heels and give someone a pounding whenever necessary. You just take care of yourself sweetpea.. Okay K_Kay?
Posted by Joslynn on February 6, 2004, at 16:27:50
In reply to Help!!!, posted by Karen_kay on February 5, 2004, at 12:15:59
I am still worried about you crossing the street without looking both ways! You don't want to get hurt.
Can you put special sensors in your high heels and they can beep when oncoming cars approach???
Seriously, please be careful.
Posted by tabitha on February 6, 2004, at 18:10:07
In reply to Re: H Y P O M A N I A causes S E X??? » tabitha, posted by 64Bowtie on February 6, 2004, at 11:50:38
Bowtie, I understood you were joking. It also didn't seem KK was in any danger. I guess your comment just reminded me of unpleasant past experiences of my own, of being encouraged in dangerous behavior, and I felt the need to do a little educating. Sorry if I seemed to be taking it too seriously.
Posted by gabbix2 on February 6, 2004, at 19:22:45
In reply to Re: H Y P O M A N I A causes S E X??? » 64Bowtie, posted by tabitha on February 6, 2004, at 18:10:07
> I guess your comment just reminded me of unpleasant past experiences of my own
Ditto for me, and I should have let Karen speak for herself my apologies.
Posted by Elle2021 on February 6, 2004, at 19:49:17
In reply to Memo to Prof., posted by Miss Honeychurch on February 5, 2004, at 16:11:50
Dear Professor X,
I would like to apologize for my behavior in class. I have been diagnosed with Bipolar II, and my doctor and I have been trying to find the correct drug and dosage for treatment. Please accept my apology, I hope to get this straightened out as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
KarenWhat about something like that?
Elle
Posted by Elle2021 on February 7, 2004, at 3:38:44
In reply to H Y P O M A N I A causes S E X??? » Karen_kay, posted by 64Bowtie on February 5, 2004, at 13:51:37
Hypomania doesn't cause sex, but it can make people resort to reckless, self-destructive, and impulsive behaviors like: Having sex with strangers, spending sprees, etc.
Elle
Posted by Elle2021 on February 8, 2004, at 1:32:16
In reply to Re: H Y P O M A N I A causes S E X??? » 64Bowtie, posted by Elle2021 on February 7, 2004, at 3:38:44
Karen,
I'm worried about you. You didn't post today (not that I saw anyway, and I did look). Are you doing okay.
Elle
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