Hey T&S and BP Nurse

I had a big response written up but then my browser crashed

I have taken on board all of your advice and am really grateful for you taking the time to post to me. You are totally right, I need to start putting my health first or else I will end up a wreck. Everyone around me knows how destructive I can become (my recent hypomania episode has left a bit of my life in shambles, to say the least), and I know that I need to look after myself more. Your story really resonated with me, BP Nurse, thank you for sharing that.

T&S, (and yes, there is a story behind my 'almondjoy' handle ) I agree with you - I don't think 2 weeks would be enough. I have talked to my husband about staying in hospital for a while if I needed to. He is supportive and knows that it would be much better for me to be there then by myself, in bed, alone all day - those are the times my mind can become very dangerous.

While I do love my job, I know that it is not the end of the world if I do need to take time off or even if I do have to leave my job.
I stopped the Seroquel because of the side effects and have just started Lamictal. Only on a tiny amount (to try avoid the renowned possible side effects) so that we can work up to how much I'll need. I know it could take a while, but I want to see how I go and if I need the time off, I know I need to just do it.

I feel like I have had a change of heart - thanks so much for your responses and support, it's helped a lot!


- AJ