[xp1155]

Well, I'm six weeks into my PhD program and my whole mood has changed. I am very angry and anxious to the point meds won't work. I honestly don't usually have a problem with anger- so this symptom is new to me. I wonder if my new environment has triggered this anger and heightened anxiety. Sure, there's an adjustment period; but I know how to be a graduate student! Also, I have been followed to my apartment twice and that has put my anxiety through the roof... but that doesn't explain the anger.

[BlackPup]

Maybe the stress associated with being followed has also made you angry. I would be angry if someone followed me twice... Being a PhD student is a recipe for stress also. hope you feel better soon

[xp1155]

Thanks! I am simply not used to being angry. My new p-dpc gave me Depakote a week ago, but it doesn't seem to be working too well. My side effects are annoying- heartburn, I'm hungry all the time, my memory fades in and out. We first tried Seroquel because I've been on it before; however, it didn't phase me this time. I've tried every anxiety med under the sun, but they aren't helping in the slightest. It's hard to get work done for class when feeling this way.

[madisgram]

xp do you see a therapist? if so you could bring this up irl to find some coping skills that may help you through this stressful time. i think it's great re phd. wish you continued success with your educational efforts. i think maybe things may settle down once you get acclimated. it would stress me out too. for me stress comes out sideways and anger manifests itself.

[Detach]

Does your Pdoc think you have some mania? I ask because when I was manic I was irritable and angry, anxious, as well as other things... Stress is horrible for us bipolars, just do the best you can. As far as Depakote goes... I couldn't tolerate it at all, because of the stomach issues. I'm on Tegretol XR and I don't notice any side effects from it.