[nataliepatricia6183]

Hi,
I've had ADD since I was young. I've never been officially diagnosed but I've done numerous tests and even took Abnormal Pysch and I fit the bill to a T. (I even had to stop a couple times typing this to pick at myself which is a part of the ADD). Anyway, I believe I also may have some un-diagnosed bi-polar or mood issues because when I try stimulants like wellbutrin, I can become manic. This has led me not to speak about this ADD to a doctor, which I know is a mistake.
I have been on antidepressants and Prozac worked great for my additional anxiety and paranoia- however doesn't help much with ADD. I also really benefitted from abilify for my mood issues but the blood sugar problem and weight gain is not something I can tolerate, as I gain weight easily and have tried really hard to lose 30 pounds in the last year.

My question is, is anyone in the forum currently ADD and Bi-polar or ADD with anxiety and if so which treatments have worked best for you. Medicines or otherwise. I need non-stimulating treatments that may be combined with SSRI and I can't handle benzos as they throw me into a deep depression. As does antihistamines.
I'm currently trying vitamins and such but I believe it takes a long time to notice results this way. I just want to be normal and not keep risking losing my job or my mind!

Thanks

[healingme4me]

I'm giving this a bump up. Have you asked in both the Bipolar or Anxiety forums?

Are you currently in counseling? Risking a job loss sounds scary and maybe one can help with coping skills?

Maybe try approaching this with your doctor? It'd be noted that wellbutrin didn't work anyways, maybe they could come up with suggestions, as well. Not talking about it, only leaves them in the dark.

[Nike007]

I do have anxiety, but I am not officially diagnosed with AD/HD, but I know my pdoc wanted me to try a stimulant, but my mom said no (which I will be on in a month possibly). For me, I use Lexapro, which is great for my anxiety, but not AD/HD or the hidden depression I have. I would like to try Wellburtin to combat 2 at once, but it might not work. Anyways, I will try to update you when I see my pdoc next (in September).

Good luck.

[CrazyLo]

I am schizoaffective, which is schizophrenia plus bipolar. I also have severe ADHD. I get super manic at times. Anti-depressants and stimulants ALWAYS induce mania for me. I'm surprised you can take any SSRI's if you are bipolar. I know of strattera for ADHD, which is a non-stimulant. I'm not currently allowed to take any stimulants (like my Adderall) because it makes my mania worse and I'm only just now coming down from a several month-long manic and psychotic episode.

But I would really try to be completely honest with your pdoc, AND see a counselor if you don't already. It's important to get an accurate diagnosis, otherwise, how can they help you?

[coldwut]

I have ADHD Inattentive type and I think I might be bipolar. I also take medication for anxiety. I think the combination of ritalin and ssri put me in a mixed state.

Anyhow, talk to your pdoc about your symptoms and your reaction to any medication. Hopefully by doing that you can find the right combination.