[cool09]

I can't find a lot of information on racing thoughts. I don't know if they are indicative of certain disorders (mainly bipolar). I did read that racing thoughts could be the start of a manic episode but that's not what happens to me. When I say "racing thoughts" to a professional they always think I'm referring to anxiety but this is much different. These episodes are completely overwhelming.

[Soupe du jour]

Originally Posted by cool09

I can't find a lot of information on racing thoughts. I don't know if they are indicative of certain disorders (mainly bipolar). I did read that racing thoughts could be the start of a manic episode but that's not what happens to me. When I say "racing thoughts" to a professional they always think I'm referring to anxiety but this is much different. These episodes are completely overwhelming.

It's odd that a psychiatrist wouldn't know racing thoughts as a common symptom of hypomania, mania, or mixed states of bipolar. I do know, however, that "racing thoughts" can also be present in some forms of anxiety.

I guess I'd assume that perhaps a doctor may assume anxiety if few (if any) other symptoms of hypomania, mania, or mixed states are present. Even anxiety itself can be part of bipolar disorder for many, or at least a mixed episode. Also, anxiety can be a separate issue for a person with a bipolar disorder diagnosis. We may be dealing with anxiety while our moods are stable. Anxiety forms can also exhibit differently, at times. For example, it can bring irritation and/or other reactions we may not even realize at first. For example, I start grinding my teeth or picking at my skin on my fingers or holding my breath sometimes when I'm stressed, but I'm not exhibiting any clear fear, dread, or worry that are more "stereotypical" anxiety symptoms. Racing thoughts can be another of many examples. I think anxiety and bipolar-induced racing thoughts have similarities, but also differences.

I'm not saying you never get hypomanic or aren't, but if racing thoughts are the only symptom you currently have, maybe it's anxiety...or something else (too much sugar or caffeine, hormonal fluctuations, other). Do discuss any other feelings with your doc, including physical ones.

[cool09]

They are just random. Like I wake up with intense racing thoughts which last a few hours (I don't know I lose track of time). There's nothing physical about them (unlike anxiety symptoms: racing heart, etc.) They've stopped after I increased my gabapentin. (Don't know exactly what gabapentin does.)

I had a Dr. 20 yrs ago that asked me if things felt "speeded up" and I told him "yes". He diagnosed me bipolar.

[Soupe du jour]

I'm glad the gabapentin is helping you. I know that medication is frequently prescribed for anxiety symptoms. I also know it's occasionally prescribed as a bipolar moodstabilizer, particularly when anxiety is present. It's an interesting med, for sure. My husband takes it for nerve pain. I also know it's used by some people with epilepsy or other seizure disorders.

[Tart Cherry Jam]

Gabapentin wears so many hats! I am glad it helps you with racing thoughts.