I can really identify with a lot that has been already stated. I was first diagnosed with BP because I had mood swings. I had hypomania symptoms: talked very quickly, anxious, running thoughts, high energy. These symptoms varied in duration. On the other had I was severely depressed and suicidal. I was put on Lithium, Lamictal, Seroquel, Clonazapam, and Wellbutrin. After 7 years I have now been told that I was misdiagnosed and really suffer from Borderline Personality Disorder. I was truly angry at first. I figured that I didn't need to be on all that medication. I'm slowly coming to accept that I could have BPD. My therapist told me and some one from this forum reminded me that it really doesn't matter what my diagnosis is because both BP and BPD are treated in the same way. I don't take the same medication by choice. I've been dealing with a lot of depression lately. I made the mistake of not taking my meds for a while and drinking. I trying to get back on track now.

The who diagnosis thing is a terrible thing to have to deal with in addition to the depression and other problems like suicidal thoughts. I definitely want to say that it would be really good to work with the doctors as closely as possible because they do know more than us. I do a lot of research because I want to be knowledge about what is being suggested. When it comes to the medicine it's important to understand how they are supposed to work and how to take them. I'm learning more about my meds since I stopped taking them and now I am starting over from a low dosage with Wellbutrin and Lamital. My understanding about Lamital is that it can cause a lot of problems if I increase dosage too quickly. I'm going to make an effort to really work with my doctors so that we can figure out what is really going to work for me, especially in light of the new diagnosis of BPD.

I hope this helps. I like this thread. It has been helpful for me to hear what others have to say about BP and BPD. Peace