Butterfly

I don't have bipolar, just severe depression (and there is nothing to make me doubt that that is correct) but I'd like to offer my support as well.

I know what a mixed blessing a new diagnosis can be. It is a new label, and we do have to realize that we are not defined or categorized by a label, we are still all individuals and it is important that others realize that as well. It also tends to make us naturally feel as if we have a "new illness" along with a new diagnosis, but that is not the case, just a new way of describing the things that have already been going on, that you already have an understanding of.

On the positive side you can also simply think of this as a new "handle" that you can use to gain better understanding of what is going on and to give the doctors that same guide to help them in treating you better.

So somewhere in there there is a balance that will suit you.

And I think that being a member of this place is ideally suited to help you find that balance. So just remember to keep learning, keep questioning your doc, and always remember that we are here.

{{{{{{{{{butterflylady}}}}}}}}}}}}