[Secretum]

I'm going to see my pdoc really soon, and I already have a pretty good list of things that I am going to bring up. There is one issue, however, that I feel really uncomfortable discussing (can't even tell my therapist) that I think he may need to know about.

I've been having mild psychotic symptoms (mostly auditory and visual hallucinations, but some paranoia as well) for the past two months. I occasionally hear a voice that says just one word-"hey" or my name. I've also heard music that couldn't possibly have been played; I heard what sounded like a struggling flautist trying to play scales yesterday while in the shower, for instance. I see things quite often, usually out of the corner of my eye, but occasionally right in front of me. Sometimes I end up walking through people! lol As for the paranoia...I thought that the guy I sat next to at Starbucks spiked my coffee once. I didn't drink another sip of the delicious gingerbread latte until 20 minutes after he left, once I realized how ridiculous my thoughts were. I often get the feeling that everyone hates me, or can sense something different in me just by looking at me.

Does any of this sound like a potential serious problem that he should know about, or are these experiences relatively normal? If you think I should tell him, how do you suggest I bring it up? Like I said, it is really difficult for me to talk about this issue. I seem very "sane" on the outside, and while I know that I am not nearly as healthy as I look, I am afraid that if I mention this to a mental health professional they will think that I am lying to seek attention.

Thanks!

[Moose72]

Sounds a lot like me. id definitely tel them

[roads]

From what I can tell looking these up, yes--real symptoms. Why would they think you were wanting attention, especially if you don't even want to broach the subject?

I think you'd do well to deal with them while they're still minor. Please find a way to tell they.

[AniManiac]

Yeah, I agree with roadrunner and moose. Especially if this stuff is in any way distressing to you (e.g., paranoia = distressing almost by definition, no?) The type of hallucinations you describe sound pretty typical, especially of bipolar rather than schizophrenia, at least as I understand it.

It sounds mild now, but managing it before it can escalate is probably wise. Nip it in the bud, as they say...

If you're worried about sounding attention-seeking (I don't think you should worry about that!) then it might help you to feel more justified in bringing it up if you can identify any triggers, or speak to how often this happens, timing, or any other details.

[~Christina]

I agree with everyone ,, I have alot of same kinda issues and I advised my Pdoc and T and we are currently working on a solution for them.. None of it shocked them ,, they deal with these issues all the time and only want to help you ..

((( hugs )))

[Rosie23]

I have had lots of times when I heard someone call my name. I've even turned around to look. I've heard music too. But I think this happens more when I am under a lot of stress and/or manic.