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Sep 02, 2009, 08:01 PM
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Member Since: Jul 2009
Location: Phoenix, AZ, USA
Posts: 2,779
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Hello Vanessa (ohthefun) and welcome to PC,
I am bipolar also and my mania does not include psychosis so no one can agree whether it's I or II but I don't really care cuz I'm feeling OK on my meds and that's what matters.
Impulses and behaviors that you feel you cannot control are definite symptoms of bipolar illness. They can be OCD, too. PTSD, which I've had also, is a little different. There are not so many impulsive or compulsive tendencies as there are anxiety, overreactions, distancing from people, hypervigilence (looking out for bad things to happen), insecurity, and a few other things. You had a question about meds. Some people choose to live without them. It is difficult, but they do it. I choose to take medication. I feel more even and can depend on my moods better. There are so many medications to choose from these days, I don't know why you wouldn't want to try some of the new ones and see if they help you. You mentioned Lamictal. I took that at one time and liked it but after 8 months, the dreaded rash showed up. If you feel like a zombie on meds, then they are not adjusted correctly. I don't feel like a zombie. I feel generally good and I take both a mood stabilizer and an antidepressant.
I would ask your doctor about med changes. Also, write anytime you have a question. There are lots of people here, lots of bipolars, too. We all care and welcome your posts.
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 Vickie
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