[kaliope]

I am posting this under Bipolar and PTSD because I am both and don’t know where it will find the most responses. I saw my T yesterday and wanted to discuss my progress. We wrote a list of all my symptoms before I started meds and therapy. My T kept repeating that this was “a long list!” This bothers me because I thought I was a run of the mill crazy person, but his reaction makes me think that my problems were more extreme. I am stable now, just some steady anxiety I manage with coping skills, but I was a mess back then. So my issues were: Depression, suicidal, cutting, dissociation, depersonalization, derealization, hypervigilance, anxiety, panic attacks, voices in my head, psychosis, mania, and insomnia
So how do I compare? Does anybody else experience all these issues or is it just me?

[mgran]

People probably experience a lot of issues at different times. Not sure about the "de's" in that list (besides depression) ... I know I've spaced out in the past and not been there, which might be dissociation. Other than that I've had everything... at different times.

But you can talk about it clearly, so you're probably functioning pretty well at the moment.

[skeksi]

I wonder if by commenting that it was a long list, your T was trying to point out how far you've come--not what a mess you once were.

I haven't experienced everything on your list--but I've also experienced symptoms that aren't on your list. Neither of us is a crazy person. We've struggled and suffered, though, and that determination to improve our lot seems like the most important part.

It sounds like you've come a long way! At this point, you can say you have PTSD and bipolar under control, with some anxiety that is also managed. That's a status many aspire to. Pat yourself on the back!

[serendipidy]

its not about the length of the list it is about the severity of the symptoms and how much it impacts your ability to function day to day

[mgran]

I know I've commented on this before, but just wanted to add that, as well as being able to express yourself clearly, you're obviously self aware, able to attend sessions, able to reflect on your symptoms... you're probably better than you fear.