Phil. One of my first posts on this board was about my initial diagnosis or lack of. I was so mad that my pdoc was focusing on depression and possible personality disorders tied to the depression. She didn't really talk about bi-polar at all. Yet she prescribed depakote er (mood stabilizer used for BP) and an anti-depressant. So I didn't quite understand. But I never got a definitive diagnosis out of her. I was very angry. I hated her.

As time went on she learned more about me and we've reached what I think is a good med combo. I'm on effexor, wellbutrin, and depakote. I finally asked her for a dx last month (4th visit) and she said that it's most likely BP II, but still said it can take up to 2 years to give a definitive dx, and even then it may not be accurate. I tend to be much more down than up, and the ups are exciting, but definitely not full-blown mania. BP II fits me pretty well, but I could possibly have GAD, PPD, OCD, and some other things as well.

Once I settled down about the whole dx thing, I realized that I don't really care what it is. All I know is it's chronic, and with medication, therapy (to learn how to cope with it), and a lot of patience...I can live my life however I want to.

Man, I was freaked out and angry though. I had a panic attack over the dx thing. Now I know that it is better to start accepting who you are, no matter what that may be, rather than labeling yourself.

I wish you all the best.