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Originally Posted by hayward
-Do you see one of your issues as being "The biggest" one, and if so , do you concentrate on that one the most- using meds for it?
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A thyroid condition and menopause were the triggers for my latest fall from grace into the arms of magnified bi polar symptoms. Treatment to stablize my thyroid was my initial focus. It provided modest relief to depression. I avoided hormone replacement therapy and meds for the bi polar symptoms for years after my initial thyroid diagnosis.
Quote:
Originally Posted by hayward
-After all of these years, are you still wondering if you have received the correct diagnosis? Does it ever seem to change for you?
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I wondered that all the time until I had collected so many labels that it all seemed pointless to me. I also discovered so many overlapping symptoms between diagnosis that again considering them seperately became pointless. At the end of the day I figure what really matters for me is to focus on the symptoms. Symptoms are more specific to me and areas I need to manage. I was slow to step into the land of meds and have been very specific about what symptoms I wanted treated. Sleep is problematic for me along with hyperspeed thinking. I take an anti-psycotic med that slows down my brain activity so that I can sleep through the night. Mood swings are problematic so I take a mood stabilizer to lessen the extremes. Anxiety and hypersensitivity to stimulation are problematic so I have learned a lot of techniques for coping.
Quote:
Originally Posted by hayward
-Is there a certain issue that you absolutely must tackle first in order to make progress with the others?
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Stabilizing my thyroid was my first order of business. Then it was getting quality sleep. The lack of sleep was a trigger for everything else so it had to be dealt with before I looked any deeper. Once I started sleeping properly I was in better shape to make progress in other areas.
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Originally Posted by hayward
-Is there a distinct difference between the issues or do they all overlap.
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They all overlap. That is why I deal with symptoms rather then specific diagnoises. The labels are a guide, the symptoms are sign posts.
Quote:
Originally Posted by hayward
-Do you ever sort of ignore one thing and it is just fine left alone?
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Sometimes I think I probably do. I will ignore my issues with anxiety and venture into things I would otherwise avoid to insulate myself from an attack. Sometimes it works out and sometimes it doesn't.
I think the med journey is a difficult one at the best of times. The questions you are asking might best be discussed with your doctor or even a pharmacist. I know what you mean about how overwhelming questions around med treatment can be. It doesn't take much to overwhelm me with all the variables one needs to consider. Honour your questions by taking them to the pros and see if they can't help to put you ahead of the game instead of feeling discouraged and dissatisfied with your current situation.
You are to be commended for your determination. Above all else that strength of character will lead you to the resolutions you seek.
Wishing you only wellness