Hi Aloe,

I experienced something similar this past December. At the time, I was just put on my first antidepressant, Ciprolex, by my pdoc. I had days where my energy would be elevated, I would become physically agitated and impulsive and have lots of ideas. One time, I was convinced I had terminal cancer and I was in complete shock from the diagnosis I imagined receiving for a couple of minutes, but then I managed to convince myself that it was illogical and impossible, although it definitely felt real. Another time, while I was feeling quite suicidal, I thought people on the train were after me and that I had to keep my face hidden and stay still, otherwise they will come after me... then I thought someone from the train actually followed me to the ER. When later on a nurse asked me if I thought they were still in the building, coming after me, I admitted that it was unlikely. She told me it was anxiety/paranoia that I was experiencing.

Anyways, I got a diagnosis of MDD despite being unsure if I may have had hypomania... I switched medication, and I have not had hypomania or severe paranoia since. My therapist also told me that paranoia, which can seem like delusions, is sometimes part of depression.

Your case is unique (just like any other), so I definitely recommend seeing a mental health professional because the differences between disorders can be subtle. Although I also suggest doing some of your own research because mental health professionals don't really know what's in your head and it's often about how you phrase it...