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I told my GP I think I have Bipolar disorder

Posted , 5 users are following.

claire13824
claire13824

1 month before I said this to my GP, I had asked her if she suspected it as a possibility as she suggested I stay on antidepressants for life to prevent further depressive episodes (ongoing since preteens. Now aged 30). She said there was no way I was bipolar.

She started me on AD's and 3-4 weeks later I was back seeing another GP complaining about my mood shift and massive spending spree. I initially thought I needed my AD's increased.

After this, I thought about the previous doctor mentioning depressive 'episodes' again. I researched bipolar and it described me to a T.

It seemed the start of AD's had possibly triggered hypomania/mania.

I became so focused on this and obsessively researched it and couldnt let it lie. I went back to see the GP who prescribed the AD's and told her my thoughts.

She agreed it is quite possible and was about to refer me to a psychiatrist when she saw the previous doctor had already made a referral (the doc I spoke to about my mood change and spending spree). She just added onto the referral that I was hypomanic and she wants a follow up appointment with me to gather more information to pass over to the psychiatrist. My appointment has came through before we have had this follow up. I suggested I stopped my AD's and she advised me not to just yet. I did anyway and feel better for it. I have been able to sleep again!

It is quite frustrating as ive suffered depression since age 10/11. Been on and off anti depressants since age 16 - none of which have really helped.

I think I have had them all! Why have they not referred me already?

Anyway, does it it take long for the psychiatrist to diagnose? Im actually seeing a bit of light at the end of the tunnel. I might actually get the correct help so that i can have a better quality life!

0 likes, 19 replies

19 Replies

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  • stacey16142
    stacey16142 claire13824

    Posted

    Be careful , because when you get a diagnosis and if you have children , social services can become heavily involved when you become unwell
    • claire13824
      claire13824 stacey16142

      Posted

      That is understandable. I would appreciate the help and support they would offer if I needed it. They have been involved when I have been unwell before. I was open and honest with them and to be honest, they were a massive help and very supportive. I would rather they be heavily involved than risk my childrens emotional wellbeing.
    • stacey16142
      stacey16142 claire13824

      Posted

      Well you've obviously had a decent social worker . They aren't all the same trust me

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