Hi Niko...I hope you are doing OK today...I know how scary things can be, especially when you don't have anywhere to turn.

First, about your condition..."rapid cycling", according to the DSM-IV-TR (the manual used for diagnosis by the profession) is 4 or more episodes of either mania or depression in a year. Many people, however, cycle more rapidly, even several times a day. Bipolar I is diagnosed when a patient has even one manic episode. The criteria for Bipolar II is a major depressive episode and a hypomanic episode - like mania, but not nearly as severe. So you see, you can be a rapid cycling BP I or II. It depends on where your peaks and valleys are.

Now, getting help...it is hard when you don't have insurance. Here is what I recommend...find your local chapter of NAMI (www.nami.org) or DBSA (www.DBSAlliance.org ). They shuld be able to put you in touch with doctors or mental health facilities that work on a sliding scale fee or have the access to government money for those who can't pay themselves. That's how I found my current provider. It took awhile, but I was finally able to get quality care. They should also be able to help you find a facility that will take you. That can be tricky...the suicide question is kind of a triage method to make sure they can provide for those who need the beds the worst. I doubt there is a law that comands this, it is just a way of rationing care to the most serious cases. I could be wrong, though. Sometimes a step down facility will take you if they are not full. Though you are definitely having problems, it is encouraging that you are not having suicideal ideation...if you do, and you have a plan and means to carry it out, get to a hospital pronto, OK?

If you need to see someone immediately, call your old psychiatrist. Tell them your circumstances...sometimes they'll work something out.

I wish you good luck, and I hope you can find the local support that you need. In the meantime, lean on us...these are great people here, and I know, they helped me when I felt like you do.

take care,
DJ