Hi there. I have recently joined PsychCentral.
I believe I have symptoms of Biploar Disorder/ Manic Depression, there are key signs of it, I know I def get major depressive episodes, but also feel I suffer from manic phases too. I have taken self-tests and done a lot of introspection, learning, and kept diaries of my thoughts, feelings, experiences over years. So far I have not had thorough assessment and clear diagnosis by Psychiatrist (do have an appointment booked to see one), but Im highly sure I have Bipolar, possibly Bipolar1 and may get into psychotic states sometimes too, def get suicidal. It is hard acknowledging, accepting I have a mental illness that Ive been battling with very much in silence for about 7 to 10 years and that I may require to be on medication for long term as well as therapy and other kinds of help.
I feel anxious about where things are heading for me, about whether I will be able to manage things better with approp, effective sources of help and support and if ppl can take me seriously and treat me well.