I am finding this combination of illnesses to be overwhelming. Has anyone else had success with any combination of these problems? If so, how did you manage it? Thanks.

[(JD)]

IDK all the diagnoses you may have received, but usually they can all be combined into one or two major ones (like PTSD)... so don't concern yourself with what the doctors use for the insurance companies to pay them.

Pick your battles. One thing at a time...over time. And on the days you can't battle, find a good safe spot and do good self care. (well, good self care is a must all the time)...

(((unhappyguy))) ...

I've often wondered if ADHD is part of mine, though I've never been diagnosed with that ... PTSD of the Complex variety and Depression (Dysthymia) are a definite though.

I manage the best I can ... Some days are definitely better than others ... When the physical and emotional pain are too much and I feel I will not be able to be patient, gentle and kind with myself and others, I simply take the day off and stay home.

Can be quite frustrating for sure!

And, another for you ... For good measure.

[Odee]

Originally Posted by (JD)

IDK all the diagnoses you may have received, but usually they can all be combined into one or two major ones (like PTSD)... so don't concern yourself with what the doctors use for the insurance companies to pay them.

Diagnoses determine how doctors are paid?

[hamster-bamster]

Originally Posted by Odee

Diagnoses determine how doctors are paid?

yes, in general Axis I dx's are much easier for doctors to be compensated for. PTSD is Axis I, and personality disorders are Axis II.

I think the reason PTSD was characterized as an extreme anxiety disorder was precisely to make it Axis I and more easily reimbursable by insurance. There is literature that argues that PTSD should not be conceived of as an extreme form of anxiety, but a stand-alone disorder which is not an extreme form of anything but just a consequence of severe trauma.

Since PTSD is one of THE most prominent disorders treated within the VA (Veterans' administration in the US), the internal politics within the VA could have determined where it was ultimately placed in the DSM.

[hamster-bamster]

Originally Posted by unhappyguy

I am finding this combination of illnesses to be overwhelming. Has anyone else had success with any combination of these problems? If so, how did you manage it? Thanks.

I only have had situational depression from your list, but I do know that PTSD is sometimes treated with antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs, so the combination of PTSD and depression is not "mutually exclusive" in terms of treatment.