Hi Pinny,

Sorry to hear that your meeting left you feeling bad about your bipolar depression. I think it's normal to feel embarrassed and ashamed when you choose to be vulnerable with another human being; because we can never predict the outcome that our vulnerability will have on us, or the person who receives it.

Wellbutrin is a wild horse as far as side effects. I read that it has suppressed your appetite. I think that's exactly why it's used as a weight loss drug. Maybe it's not the right medication for you after all? Are there others you could try instead? I can't suggest any b/c I am not a psychiatrist.

I think you did right to take some time off. Maybe you could reframe your embarrassment about your leave of absence to a more positive one; you are taking time to heal yourself so that when you go back to work, you'll be stable and feel great again.

Do you do anything as a hobby? You could use your time off work to indulge in a fun hobby or creative outlet to help your mind settle, too.