[Skitz13]

So, being of sound mind, well today anyway, I've made the decision to take control of my treatment.
Quick history for people who don't know.

I've lived with BP for about 20 years now. I've had it all. The med merry go round, ECT, 10 hospitalizations due to suicide attempts and dealing with lasting effects of certain medications that I won't mention because I don't want to freak people out, especially if they are taking that med and it's working for them.

I have never had a permanent pdoc. It has always been my family doc that has tried her hardest to manage me. God love her!

I had a good 6 month period of wellness. I felt physically and mentally healthier than I had ever felt. (no not mania). Then this mixed episode that I've been dealing with this last while came and smacked me upside the head, pretty darn hard. My trigger is stress in a huge way and I'm also pre-menopausal which contributed to my episode. Hormones will do it to you every time.

I had just started seeing a T in February and with my deteriorating condition was able to get me on the top of a list for a pdoc, who I have seen 3 times so far. She's great.

I should say that I am Native and this is a Native center that is providing my care. I do try and live as traditionally as I can. My T is Native however my pdoc is not. She was trained under the western model but has great respect for the traditional way.

Today the 3 of us had a meeting about my "treatment plan." My episodes are getting better. I'm not cycling hourly anymore but still most days. Today we were going to talk about medications that might be added. I'm already taking lamotrigine, a little Seroquel to sleep and Clonazepam as a PRN. More than enough medication for me. I had already made the decision that I would not be taking anything else, which I know she wanted to add on.

I'm very lucky to have such an open minded pdoc. I told her that I would continue on with what I was on but wanted to try other methods of treatment before we looked at more medication.

I already eat a crazy healthy diet, I try and walk everyday, I've started seeing a native healer that supplies me with herbs. (Chamomille and Valerian root), which helps. I've also decided to see a homeopath, primarily for acupuncture and any other suggestions they may have.

Please understand that I'm not replacing my current medication but I really feel that I need to try other avenues as well. This is a holistic approach to my care.

My pdoc supports me 100% BUT if she doesn't see any improvement than I'll have to take the medication. So we are compromising. She will continue to monitor me very closely.

Since my diagnosis I felt empowered today. I've always done what the doctor said, taken what the doctor gave without question. I'm tired of doing what I'm told and not being given the opportunity to have some say in my care.

Just because I have a MI, does not mean that I am not competent to make decisions for myself, and I've always been made to feel that I am incompetent.
I don't know if this will work, I truly hope it complements my existing treatment but the point is, I was given that choice today and a pdoc is actually supporting with it.

I'm fully aware that this of course is not a cure by all means but maybe this will be a good alternative to manage this disorder.

Anyway thought I'd share and maybe empower someone else to use their voice. It is your care and you have every right to be apart of the decision making.

[r010159]

You are handling this intelligently and responsibly. I think others can learn from this. Getting both of your therapists together was IMO an unusual but excellent decision. I am sure we are all here for you.

[madrikh]

Please keep us posted. I am especially interested in the homeopathy, as that's something I've thought about trying.

Peace

This is awesome! This is a really inspiring post of being able to take control. It sounds like you have a really good wrap on things and I am glad you have a pdoc willing to work with you. Keep us posted!

[Skitz13]

Originally Posted by madrikh

Please keep us posted. I am especially interested in the homeopathy, as that's something I've thought about trying.

Peace

Sure I'll keep you updated. I'm really looking forward to the experience

Always want to hear of natural ways of healing. Anything to not be a slave to big pharma.

[sui generis]

I'm really interested in the using of herbs etc in treatment alongside my meds. I think some people think meh herbs but in reality they can be pretty powerful. But good on you for guiding the treatment! I think that's a really great thing to do and you've got open communication with your doctor + therapists which is awesome. I'm also keen for updates, especially regarding the herbs stuff

[r010159]

St. John's Wort is much to weak to be effective. FWIW

[venusss]

Originally Posted by r010159

St. John's Wort is much to weak to be effective. FWIW

I have a homemade tincture and it works "too well" for me. I can only take it for few days in row otherwise I'm flying high.

Herbs are better in tinctures. Some of the active indegrients are best soluted in alcohol. They last better. I vary of herbs in form of pills or capsules. Grinding them creates too much exposure to air and light, which is causes the herbs to lose some of their good properties. Plus no way to tell what the guality of herbs is. If you want herbs for teas, preferably pick your own and dry them in upside down hanging bundles. Be careful with high temperatures. (No need to worry about getting drunk, since you take only few drops at time.... and if that is still a problem, just drop your remedy into hot beverage, you will get rid of the alcohol content).

[doglover1979]

Originally Posted by r010159

St. John's Wort is much to weak to be effective. FWIW

St. Johns Wort made me manic. I'm not sure how effective it is, but it's definitely one to be careful with. SAM-e, too.

[Skitz13]

Originally Posted by VenusHalley

I have a homemade tincture and it works "too well" for me. I can only take it for few days in row otherwise I'm flying high.

Herbs are better in tinctures. Some of the active indegrients are best soluted in alcohol. They last better. I vary of herbs in form of pills or capsules. Grinding them creates too much exposure to air and light, which is causes the herbs to lose some of their good properties. Plus no way to tell what the guality of herbs is. If you want herbs for teas, preferably pick your own and dry them in upside down hanging bundles. Be careful with high temperatures. (No need to worry about getting drunk, since you take only few drops at time.... and if that is still a problem, just drop your remedy into hot beverage, you will get rid of the alcohol content).

Wow thanks for that. You may hear from me. Sounds like you know your stuff. Thanks again

[Skitz13]

Originally Posted by doglover1979

St. Johns Wort made me manic. I'm not sure how effective it is, but it's definitely one to be careful with. SAM-e, too.

Nah, I've heard about St. John's wort. I don't really think that's going to be an option anyway Thanks

[Skitz13]

Originally Posted by Lmciyah

Always want to hear of natural ways of healing. Anything to not be a slave to big pharma.

I totally agree. It's an option, I'll try it. It can't hurt and if it does work.. Bonus. I just feel that there has to be alternatives to chemicals. I hate putting them in my body, If I can help it. Thanks

[Skitz13]

Originally Posted by r010159

St. John's Wort is much to weak to be effective. FWIW

Thanks for the info but really I wouldn't even consider it.