[well]

I've been dx'd as severely depressed or manic so often on these tests, I'm beginning to think that I take them just of confirm that I am where I think I am. I don't need a test to tell me I am depressed or headed for a manic episode. What I need is real person to talk to me. The tests feel a lot like those annoying calls from banks, etc. where you never talk to a real person. In particular, the tests are the computer generated talk.

[roads]

That's what the tests are for, more or less ... especially if we're taking them multiple times. The first time I might be blown away by some real surprises, but after that I take them to confirm what I think is going on with me. I use them as tools for self-monitoring.

Since this is a self-help and peer-support site, I'm not sure what other purpose online testing would serve. There isn't a clinic associated with the online services, so there's no connection to counselors.

You say,

I don't need a test to tell me I am depressed or headed for a manic episode. What I need is real person to talk to me.

PsychCentral can be part of a support system for you then, but it's never goon to be able to provide what you're looking for.

I don't know where you live or your age, but if you're in school or employed you might start with resources there. Most schools and employers have counselors available. Otherwise inquire into county services. Or come on back here and tell us more about your situation. Someone here will be from your area and have some ideas.

Whatever is going on, I'm sure there's a way for you to sit down face-to-face and talk with a live person about what's causing the depression and ongoing manic episodes.

[shortandcute]

Originally Posted by well

I've been dx'd as severely depressed or manic so often on these tests, I'm beginning to think that I take them just of confirm that I am where I think I am. I don't need a test to tell me I am depressed or headed for a manic episode. What I need is real person to talk to me. The tests feel a lot like those annoying calls from banks, etc. where you never talk to a real person. In particular, the tests are the computer generated talk.

Is there a reason you keep taking them then?

[Jaded27]

One thing I think you should remember is that some people don't know they are having issues with certain areas in their lives and so the tests are a good way to bring those issues to the surface for them. If you already know of certain issues you are having you might want to go to the next step in furthering your knowledge about those issues.

I on the other hand have taken these tests and they are not telling me anything that I didn't already know but they do offer feedback on more specific concerns/subjects for me to research which I like.

I don't like actually talking to people much, mostly because I can't seem to find anyone who actually understands what I am saying or that can explain something to me in a way that I didn't already know. So I do my own research of issues that I believe I am having.

Maybe you could try looking up more information on the certain issues you are dealing with in order to further your understanding. I know that is easier said than done sometimes. Just a thought.

I am also new to this site but i do believe there are chat rooms you can get into. That would be closer to talking to a real person, right?

[astronaut12]

I agree with Jaded - if you are looking for a more personal interaction - try the chat rooms.

[DevilsMatrix]

Originally Posted by shortandcute

Is there a reason you keep taking them then?

'well' states in the text that he/she takes the tests just to make sure they are where they think they are. Its sort of a compulsive to-be-sure thing that you don't actually know the reason for.