[dreamrunner]

Although the therapist Ive been seeing for over a year says Im not bipolar my gp is perscribing bipolar meds like lithium.I have been terribly depressed for over a year now.Ive tried numerous antidepressents.I have had several depressive episodes (untreated) in the past.
Some days much worse than others.I self harm and abuse substances on my worst days.....suicide thought about sooooooo much.
My bother is bipolar,my daughter 21 is type two bipolar....and Im convinced that my grandmother and probably my father as well.
I guess what Im asking is I never really get highs but my lows hit me like a ton of bricks.....I seek any kind of relief when Im like that.Scary.Can bipolar be identified by the quick depression that I simetimes fall into?

[bipolar_bear]

Maybe you want to go see a pdoc and ask him about the meds you are being prescribed and the dx. It is so easy to misdiagnose bipolar and I would hate to see you treated for the wrong illness. Just a suggestion. Good luck.

BB

[darkeyes]

dreamrunner, I agree with what bipolar bear just said.
Plus there are different types/degrees of Bipolar, not everyone requires the same meds or dosages. And again, I do not think a GP should be writing prescriptions for Lithium, but that's my opinion.
I too never had what I would say is hypomania and/or mania, basically just had extreme depressions, but after very close evaluations and observation, my former psychologist and psychiatrist came to Bipolar-II(mild) and ADD(mild) DX for me. Did the various meds thingy, and after several, Lamictal did the trick, no deep depressions which the AD's (SSRI'S) that my GP had prescribed in the past lost their effectiveness. It may be in your best interest to get a 2nd opinion from another pdoc, whatever you decide I am wishing you lots of luck with this, and always feel free to come here and/or PM me.
Take good care now,
DE

[January]

Hi Dreamrunner,

I like your name.

Please go to a pdoc and get an opinion. He or she can help you get the right dx and the right meds.

I wish you the best,

Jan

[bizi]

I agree with everyone about seeing a pdoc a psychiatrist...and getting a proper evaluation and diagnosis.With your family history it runs in your family, so can depression. Bipolar 2 is the kind that leans toward the depressive side as stated already.
I am bipolar 1 which runs more hypo manic/manic.
seek help.
I wish you wellness.
bizi