[guesgirl]

I think am bipolar. Wow, that is harder to write than I ever dreamed. Of course I never thought I would say those words. I have kind of wondered for a while if I am, but I am ashamed to say those words to anyone outloud. You know, if I don't say it, it won't be true? I need help, my life and my family are falling apart around me and I am the glue that hold us together. How can I hold them up when I can barely hold my own head up?

[estimated prophet]

You are not alone. I can relate to having a family and trying to hold my head up. You should decinately talk to your doctor. If your doctor thinks you are bipolar as well, he will refer you to a psychiatrist. From there you will probably be put on meds and go to talk therapy. Its a struggle at times but it is possible to get your chin back up. Dont be ashamed of who you are. It will all be ok!

[Direction]

Originally Posted by guesgirl

I need help, my life and my family are falling apart around me and I am the glue that hold us together. How can I hold them up when I can barely hold my own head up?

Welcome! Glad you posted...

Saying it or writing it can take some of the power away. If things are becoming unglued, then it would be a good time to schedule some help with a professional.

Keep posting!

[dragonfly2]

Hi guesgirl, and welcome to PC.

I know what you mean about being the "glue" that holds everything else together. That has been me for a while. If there's one thing I've learned, it's that I need to keep myself healthy first. Sort of like when they tell you to put on your own oxygen mask first in an airplane. I saw from your other post that you have a therapist - that's fantastic. It's a huge step that is difficult for some people to get to - so, in that regard, you are already ahead and in the right direction.

I know what you mean about the diagnosis being scary. But, on the other hand, knowledge is power. Now that you are closer to understanding what is going on, you are closer to a solution. You are still the same person, but now you have the opportunity to heal and become an even better person by getting the roller coaster of moods under control. As for telling other people right now, that's probably not necessary. As long as you, your husband, and your therapist are all on board with your treatment, you are not alone. That, and now you have us!

There is a lot of good information on PC about bipolar, and a ton of fabulous people here to lean on. Another site you might want to look into, if you haven't already is www.bipolar.about.com . Bipolar disorder isn't the end of the world. Take a look at the about.com site - you'll find, among a ton of other things, a list of famous people with bipolar disorder. Many of them were/are very successful people, with everything from actors, writers, politicians, astronauts, scientists - lots of creative and influential minds. It may not feel like it right now, but you are in good company.

You're going to be okay. One day at a time, okay?