[idrinktea]

I have recently been diagnosed with bipolar dissorder. Ive had panic attacks about 4/5 times a day every day for the last 7/8 years. At the moment I go in very very quick cycles, so id say I get a so called 'high' and then a massive low within a few hours. I say 'so called' high because although its like im invincible and everythings going super fast and i have this sort of 'ego' unstoppable thing going on it also come with a massive fear and a dread because I know whats coming for me afterwards.
Anyway, what I really would like to know is if the panic attacks are a common thing for people with bipolar?
Does anyone know what causes bipolar? Is it genetic?
Im currently being referred and awaiting treatment, as i was on anti depressants before but they just made everything worse. What can I expect treatment wise?
Ill be honest, i know that it is a really good thing to finally be diagnosed so that i can receive treatment and get better, but to be honest, I am just completely terrified about what this means, or what it is and what on earth is/is going to happen to me.

[IndigoRose]

It has been my experience that bipolar is hereditary. As far as what causes bipolar, there are millions of web-sites, this one included, that will give you a clear picture. Google it and read away. A lot of people have some anxiety and panic attacks in conjunction with the various aspects of depresion. Make sure you tell your doctor everything you're thinking and feeling so that you can get the right course of treatment.

What you can expect treatment wise depends on both the physician and how active a role you play in the decision making. It's important not to allow them to control you, but to work with them. Do not be afraid to be vocal, speak your mind, or say what you truly feel. If you don't agree with something, say so. I can understand being terrified, but there's really nothing to be terrified about. You're getting help, which is a fabulous start. This is something you suffer from, it is not your fault you have it. You will have good days and you'll have bad days. The right medication and combination of doctor/therapy should help you work through things so that you can go back to living a life that you are comfortable with. I wish you the very best life has to offer.

[grizmom]

I do have problems with panic and anxiety, but I am also diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder, so I don't know how much of it is the bipolar.

As for what to expect, as far as medications it may take awhile to find the right combination for you. I suggest keeping a notebook with all medications, dosage, date started/stopped, side effects and why they were adjusted or stopped. I wish I had done this because it's been so many years of different meds that I can't remember what I've been on and what the side effects were so it's hard if I have to switch to a new doctor and I can't remember what didn't work.

I also suggest keeping a mood diary; there are several online but most only give you one option for your mood and anxiety for the day, so I keep my own since my mood and anxiety can fluctuate a lot. I track my mood and anxiety 3 times a day, and track sleep, meds, energy level, etc. This is also something I wish I had started sooner; it has been a great help to me and I notice much sooner if my mood swings are getting more severe and I can get in right away for a med adjustment.

As for what to expect as far as therapy, it really depends on what your individual issues are and what your doctor and therapist think will help the most.

One of the most important things is to be totally honest about any and all symptoms and side effects of meds.

Best of luck to you, and feel free to post questions or vent or whatever here; everyone has been very nice to me

[Fire_Star]

Doctors I've seen have diagnosed me with mixed anxiety and depression, or just panic/anxiety disorder. When I was diagnosed with bipolar, the pdoc said that those events which lead those docs to those conclusions was actually all part of bipolar so those diagnosis were dropped.

So for me, panic attacks in the recent history using means I'm about to jump into some fun psychosis for the next few days at least. But of course, this is along with other BP symptoms too.

[Anneinside]

My panic attacks are just associated with entering a classroom or going to the local university. Anxiety hits anytime I am under stress from interacting with people who are out of control, rude, dumping their responsibilities on me among other things.

[yutzman]

Thanks for posting....I'm bipolar and it took about ten years for Pychs (many) to finally diagnose me.....and yes panic attacks can come with bipolar, as in my case. Yes, just being on antidepressant can make it worse. I had no control of my hypomania and it really effected my life, in bad ways.....so many....
Since diagnosed I've been put on Lamictal and Buspar to help with mood and anxiety, in that order. It has helped me so much....and I was hesitant too....So a good Pych will know the course of treatment.....but we can help here too....So post back and let us know how are doing....I've been bipolar for years....Keep posting .....Good Luck......Y....

[sugahorse1]

I'll second Yutzamn's comments - I've only been on here for a VERY short while, but chatting about your experiences helps to understand them and find people who can genuinely relate.
I am on Azor (Need to google active ingredient) to help with anxiety. I'm not too sure it helps that much as I do believe the dose is still very low. But when I battle with anxiety my whole body tightens, I can feel my mood get snappy, my mind races and my hands clench. I do believe anxiety is very closely related to Bipolar and depression and that often they go hand-in-hand.

Hang in there and most of all be patient. It is common to need to try a whole variety of meds until you find the combination that really works for you. You need to be honest and in constant contact with your p-doc. Maybe keep a journal to pick up any changes in moods