rhcpgirlaji

First, I would like to welcome you to psych central. I'm sure you will enjoy this site. I have only been here a very short period myself and am very glad to have been given the link to find my way here.

I had an appt with my pdoc (psychatrist) today and I actually remembered to ask her this question. She basically gave me the same answer as you did but with less detail. She said that ppl with BP are at far more risk while manic/hypomanic than when depressed. Also, I do know from researching my disorder that the comments you make about having the energy to go through with a suicide are not usually sufficient when you are extremely depressed. It is usually done when the person is starting to feel somewhat, maybe a lot better. However; that is not true for everyone. For me, it has always happened at a point where I couldn't be any lower if I tried. It had never been a premediated act, but moreso one of desperation at the given moment that I was in.

The med you mentioned, sorry, can't remember the name, I've never heard of it so I personally know nothing about it.

As far as being properly diagnosed. Yes, I've gone through extensive written and verbal testing at a psychiatric center by a qualified psychatrist. I was originally sent there by my T (therapist) at the time for testing to see if I was BPD. The pdoc told me after all the testing was done and evaluated, that it was too soon to know if I should also be slapped with that one and said I would need to be first well stabilized on a mood stabilizer to stop the ultra rapid cycling and then I should go back for further testing. I never went back so I don't really know if I have it but for me, I already have enough diagnosis to worry about, without having to think about adding one more, plus it can sometimes be difficult to find a pdoc who will take on a BPD, so I didn't want that diagnosis attached to my file.

I hope I remembered to answer all the questions you presented, if not, fire away again and if I have the answers, I'll be happy to oblige.

Again, welcome to PC.