[swheaton]

I had mentioned in another thread that my PCP does not believe I'm bipolar. She isn't one for labels and doesn't feel that I need one. I am finding myself wondering what the heck I am, but I know that this isn't important.

So, I am going without a specific diagnosis for a while. It feels weird. I just hope that I can come back here, because I have made friends and feel I can be helpful.

Don't kick me out, okay

[krisakira]

If they won't diagnose you, how would they know how to treat you?

[Victoria'smom]

I would ask for a referral to a psychologist and psychiatrist (if your on meds) PCP are not specialists.

[swheaton]

Good question. They only thing that is certain, is that I get darkly depressed for long periods. Rather than give it a name, she is treating the symptoms. So far things are going well. My meds are getting reduced and the hope is that I can take less and do well. I had the Genetic swab done and the meds that are working are in the green. My therapist and I are working on what has been considered "manic" behavior and seeing if it could be related to medications.

Welcome xoxox

[swheaton]

Hi, Rainyday

[SillyKitty]

Welcome! I would ask for a referral to a psychiatrist, though.

[r010159]

Originally Posted by swheaton

Good question. They only thing that is certain, is that I get darkly depressed for long periods. Rather than give it a name, she is treating the symptoms. So far things are going well. My meds are getting reduced and the hope is that I can take less and do well. I had the Genetic swab done and the meds that are working are in the green. My therapist and I are working on what has been considered "manic" behavior and seeing if it could be related to medications.

Genetic swab? Do tell me more!

I think a diagnosis is almost essential to BP. My doctor who treats the symptoms had a measure of success with that approach. But I was never well enough to return to work. Then ten years later in desperation he tries a mood stabilizer. The MS has worked out very well. <sarcasm> Gee, I wonder why ?? Soon I hope to return to work.

IMO a diagnosis, even though not essential, can greatly speed up the treatment process and help avoid many unnecessary nasty times for the patient.

[Confusedinomicon]

Maybe do a psychiatric assessment to narrow down the possible diagnosis and identify what needs to be worked on? Your therapist may be able to give you one or have you referred to get one.

Regardless, psychiatry is trial and error and sometimes its better to have someone listen to you then chuck meds at you. Seeing a psychiatrist at some point is probably ideal though.

[swheaton]

I had a pdoc for nearly two years. It just seemed that he wanted to keep adding to the mess with a little of this and a little of that. I just want a break. I'm taking Geodon now, instead of Lamictal and it seems to be working better.

Ro10159, it's a cheek swab that is used to test your genes against certain medications. So far, I'm spot on with what doesn't work.