[adeline]

Hi,

I've posted on this site before (lost my password, so this is a new user name). I've had debilitating "issues" (who knows what all it is...well, so far bipolar NOS, dsythymia, bulimia, & ADHD) since I developed PTSD at age 3. It all came to a climax in the past year and a half, and I was finally given consistent therapy, meds, etc.

I've worked really hard and gotten through soo much, and now I feel like I'm in complete remission (even conquered dependency issues). I had a little slip into depression in December, but have come out of it....how long do you think this could last? I've really changed my lifestyle, & how I think about things, and I feel like my stability (or at least ability to pull myself back before it gets bad) is fairly permanent.

I've read about (and experienced) people stopping meds when they feel recovered, and I know that a BIG piece of where I am is the 300mg of lamictal that I take. I'm just wondering how often it is that people can "recover," and lead stable lives (or close to) with a good med & therapy regimen?

[Azalysa]

Hi, adeline!

I would say remission is as individual as the person and factors in many things so I can just speak for myself.

The last major depression I experienced was 10 years ago. Since then I've had maybe several days to a week of "minor depression" but nothing I couldn't work with. I got slammed with my second major depressive episode beginning the end of last December. I had had several major stressors throughout the year which I'm pretty sure set this one off.

Take care

[JustBen]

Yeah, it's a totally indiudual thing. I'm sure you can find statistics somewhere if you want, but they won't really tell you what you can expect for a particular person or situation. The important thing, I think, is just to keep building on all the good work you've done and try not to focus on negative possibilities.

[DaveyJones]

I would have to add that execise and good stress management are vital to remaining healthy, as well as good nutrition. I believe that a majority of bipolar disease's symptoms can be avoided in this way. (One day I'lleven learn to do it myself)!

DJ

[theenemywithin]

I will echo what all the other members have stated, proper med. management, development of appropriate coping skills, especially stress managment skills, and a healthy lifestyle, to include abstainance from substances/alcohol, exercise and proper nutrition. And on that last note dietary supplementation of B vitamins, especially folic acid and Omega-3 fatty acids, derived from fish. Be sure and consult your pdoc concerning supplements and especially any consideration of herbal products.

I have relatively stable for the last 13 years with a dx of BPI.

Lewis, LSW

[adeline]

Thanks to all for all of the information....you've really brightened my view of the implications of bipolar as a lifelong disorder! It was great to hear that stability can be maintained with healthy life management tactics. Thanks for all of the great advice!

~Jessie