New Pdoc, New Diagnosis and just moved

I haven't been here in awhile 'cause I was preparing for a major move from NY to Florida. I found a new Pdoc and saw him for the first time on Friday 3/20. He spent 2 HOURS with me! And he gave me a brand new diagnosis. He says I have Bipolar NOS, NOT cyclothymia & major depression. I am shocked! But I did have an inkling that my first diagnosis might not be quite right--I couldn't see how major depression and cyclothymia could coexist.

Ok. So can anyone tell me where I can find out more about this form of bipolar (not otherwise specified)? I sort of feel helpless again--like I'm starting over. Pdoc is changing my meds--has started me on Lithium and will eventually take me off of the other meds I was on (Seroquel, Lamictal, and Cymbalta.) He may add something with the lithium at some point.

This is all new again and somewhat stressful in addition to the move, new people, new neighbors, new church, remodeling our kitchen, still unpacking and on & on...

I'm on overload; sometimes really bad with the forbidden dark thoughts.
Please give me some feedback if you can. I would appreciate it.

thanks, Journey

I hope your move went well, that is soooo stressful! Florida's pretty nice, though. My sister lives down there.

It sounds like you pdoc is starting at the right place. Lithium is still the first line treatment for bipolar. It's a good place to start. I've been taking it for four years or so.

The Lamictal and Seroquel are also common drugs used in bipolar treatment. Seroquel is approved for use with both mania and depression, Lamictal more for depression, I think, though it is approved for mania, too.

I take all of these as well as an antidepressant. I'm changing from citalopram back to budeprion (Celexa and Wellbutrin). I've been quite depressed lately, I usually am spring and fall.

Important: do precisely as your doctor says. If you're not feeling right, call him/her before stopping/starting meds. You're making a pretty big change in medications, don't be surprised if things get a little rough at times.

I pray things go OK. Don't hesitate to check in when things get rough. There are TONS of people who want to help!

Hi Journey,

You would be superhuman if you did not feel down with everything that is going on. Moving is right up there with divorce as a major life stressor. I think that getting a doctor who took the time to give you the right diagnosis is a big step in the right direction. Getting on the correct medication will be a big help. Hang in there and give yourself some relaxation time.
Furchild

J.U, hope you'll find more easier once you have settled down soon.