[GeeN]

I have been having mostly symptoms of depression and obsessive thoughts. The only time when I notice any signs of mania is the lack of sleep during the night and also racing unwanted thoughts. Could it be possible that I am not bipolar but have OCD or something else?

[girlN]

The only way to find out is to talk w/ your DR. Good luck

[Bellax3]

I 2nd GirlN,
I'm pretty sure to be diagnosed with BP, you have to have X amounts of episodes, depending on what fits the type you have, and in order for it to be an episode, you have to have ( I think) 5 or more of the diagnostic criteria symptoms simotaneously. For example,( and this is just an example, I'm making it up) in a manic episode, you have to have racing thoughts, increased speed in speech, reckless behavior, Lots of energy, and sleeplessness before it is diagnosed as a manic episode, and you have to have several of those to be diagnosed as BP1

Mmkay, i'm confusing myself, slightly manic here

My point- if you have only one or two manic symptoms, its not really a manic episode, but you should talk to your doc to make sure.
Does that make sense?

good luck,
Bella

[GeeN]

Thanks for replying to my concern.

[DaveyJones]

http://www.behavenet.com/capsules/disorders/moodis.htm

This link will get you all the different criteria a P uses for diagnosis. be aware that there a number of diffenet parts to a diagnosis (axes)... but this will you tell you what symptoms, how often etc.

have fun!

DJ