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#1
Jun 22, 2011, 10:44 AM
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I've been seeing a psychiatrist weekly (2 sessions already), but I still haven't been told what disorder I might have. The questions she asked seem to suggest she is thinking I'm bipolar or BPD, but she hasn't stated so directly. She only stated that my therapy will need to be weekly & long-term due to the amount of issues I need to work through. How long does it usually take to get a solid diagnosis?
Many thanks! :-) |
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#2
Jun 22, 2011, 02:03 PM
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It can take some time and 2 sessions in my opinion isn't enough. Is there family history of mood disorders? BPD tends to be more reactive to life situations where BP can be a mood for no reason at all i.e. I can have things in my life going well, but be depressed for no reason.
I would suggest starting to track your mood and let your Psychiatrist know. I use this online one: http://www.medhelp.org/land/mood-tracker
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Favorite book on bipolar "Living with Someone who is Living with Bipolar Disorder" by Chelsea Lowe, 2010 Check out my blog The Bipolar Roller Coaster: http://blueoctober.psychcentral.net/ New Post March 23 "New Therapist" |
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#3
Jun 22, 2011, 02:09 PM
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Welcome to the forums, Salmacis!
 Like everything else, it varies. It's a good thing that she is getting to know more before diagnosing.  Frustrating? Maybe. But a good thing nonetheless. And remember, a label is just a label. What really matters is finding treatment that works for you, you know? |
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#4
Jun 22, 2011, 02:46 PM
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Many thanks, BlueOctober & Innerzone! It's definitely good to know that taking more time for a proper diagnosis could be a good thing. I'll check out that mood tracker...
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#5
Jun 22, 2011, 03:50 PM
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I was given my diagnosis the first time I went in and saw my psychiatrist. He pretty much exclusively diagnoses and doesn't do much therapy, if any...so I can't really help you there.
It took longer than that to get my other diagnoses when I was first working with a psychologist in therapy, like it seems you are describing. Just remember though that the diagnosis isn't what's important. The important thing is you getting the right treatment. |
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#6
Jun 22, 2011, 03:52 PM
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Welcome! Glad you posted...nothing to add to the other comments other than I usually am in the bipolar or borderline forums...maybe see you around!
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Direction  Ripple Effect - Small things can make a difference |
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#7
Jun 22, 2011, 03:54 PM
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It took me years to get a formal diagnoses. First psychotic episode at sixteen, first suicide attempt at eighteen, depression and manias for years on end, with calm bits inbetween, however ongoing psychosis and paranoia. Provisionally considered "depressed" in early twenties, but the meds never worked, diagnosed bipolar at 38, later revised to schizoaffective. Finally on meds that work, and got my life back.
I'm pretty sure that twenty two years isn't the norm though...
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Here I sit so patiently Waiting to find out what price You have to pay to get out of Going through all these things twice. |
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