~*~BiPolar Folks~*~

CurveControl · 07-04-2009, 11:59 AM

Seemed like time to start a new one!

CurveControl · 07-04-2009, 12:03 PM

Oh sweet heaven. I level out and DS starts a mild maybe hypomanic period. Aarrrgghhh!!

He is about to twang my last nerve, LOL
One would think I might have more patience. 2 (or 3) bipos in one house is about 2 (Or 3) too many!

(No, he is not diagnosed, But it is hard to miss!)

djalomo · 07-04-2009, 12:51 PM

Awww, CC.

A house fulla crazy hard to beat. LOL! Sometimes when I go home I'm like

and

all at the same time.

I'm so dreadfully bored today. I feel like hanging out and going antiquing or thrift-hopping or something, but of course I'm assuming everything's closed today. Boo. THere's a pool party going down today but I kinda don't feel like going to a party, and I definitely wanna stay away from the booze. Not to mention the carbs. Me and a friend went to Sprinkles yeterday and I broke my sugar ban AGAIN to get the second half of that cupcake I ate to celebrate my award and I'll be damned if I ain't jonesin' for another cupcake right now. LOL.

I had to take .5mg of Xanax XR yesterday too because the whole deal with the other night was just at the forefront of my mind and killing me. I think the deal with Xanax is that the Lamictal makes me slightly unhungry, like my stomach feels a little wee bit "nervous" all the time, so once I pop the Xanax it's like "YUM! FAJITAS!! Bring me more!!" I didn't go overboard at lunch but I ate more than I've been eating lately.

Oh well. I slept really well last night, and we're one day farther away from DJPalooza '09.

Houston Heather · 07-04-2009, 02:45 PM

I finally felt OK today - toxic yesterday from lithium. I NEED TO DRINK MORE FLUIDS. My urine is still pretty dark.

Thank you both for your sweet comments! I thought the new av was more fun.

I have at least one family member who is battling for a possible bipolar diagnosis. I would love to get her some lithium - it'll either help, or not.

But it's "illegal" so I can't, especially since I work in a Federal Facility.

My aunt has a family freind who just got hospitalized with dual diagnosis (chemicals + bipolar). I hope she can get on a good routine now.

Ron gave me tomorrow off too, sweet! We just plan to take it easy.

My cat brought home a large, live woodrat this morning. I had to locate it (in the bathroom trash can) and move it outside (oven mitts on both hands as I took the entire can outside). UGH. After that, I NEEDED my heavy whipping cream thing at Starbucks!

We just can't have a boring time of it, can we?

djalomo · 07-05-2009, 01:09 AM

Did y'all know Tony Soprano takes Lithium and Prozac?

Hee hee. I'm watching an old episode and thought of this thread.

CurveControl · 07-05-2009, 09:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Houston Heather

I finally felt OK today - toxic yesterday from lithium. I NEED TO DRINK MORE FLUIDS. My urine is still pretty dark.

Thank you both for your sweet comments! I thought the new av was more fun.

I have at least one family member who is battling for a possible bipolar diagnosis. I would love to get her some lithium - it'll either help, or not.

But it's "illegal" so I can't, especially since I work in a Federal Facility.

My aunt has a family freind who just got hospitalized with dual diagnosis (chemicals + bipolar). I hope she can get on a good routine now.

Ron gave me tomorrow off too, sweet! We just plan to take it easy.

My cat brought home a large, live woodrat this morning. I had to locate it (in the bathroom trash can) and move it outside (oven mitts on both hands as I took the entire can outside). UGH. After that, I NEEDED my heavy whipping cream thing at Starbucks!

We just can't have a boring time of it, can we?

Ever. Seriously. I feel like crazy follows me around. What would often be a normal outing for normal people is an 'adventure' for me. Even when I have nothing to do with odd events! I swear!
Seriously? How many tomes does one go to a dentist one has never seen for a tooth extraction evaluation(evaluation NOT extraction), come home sans tooth and have a cheek kiss from the dentist?? Sweet little old guy, not a pervy thing but Jeeze?

Heather, I am glad you are better today, and I hope your relative gets the help she needs! getting OFF the 'chemicals' she is in before starting the Bipo treatment will be no picnic!

Houston Heather · 07-05-2009, 11:14 AM

Yeah. We're enrolled in the Bipolar family study. That should be very interesting. They do a long interview over the phone and send a DNA swab kit.

I swab my cheek, possibly consent to release of records (I don't mind), and do the interview, and they try to figure out how my DNA is different from my "Only Depression" family member, or the single "no mood disorder - yet" teenager in the family.

I would be interested to see how my rapid cycling, psychotic features DNA might vary from "only depression". I feel it is very important work and I'm delighted my family member wanted to sign me up. Of course I said yes!

I don't play with clinical trials of medication, but I am always happy to do anything diagnostic.

I envision a happy day where a child can be diagnosed at 2-3 years old and perhaps put of a very low dose of mood stabilizers, and NEVER manifest symptoms as a result. Wow, that would rock.

I was delusional and hallucinating at 4. I am very, very, good at hiding it.

djalomo · 07-05-2009, 11:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Houston Heather

Yeah. We're enrolled in the Bipolar family study. That should be very interesting. They do a long interview over the phone and send a DNA swab kit.

I swab my cheek, possibly consent to release of records (I don't mind), and do the interview, and they try to figure out how my DNA is different from my "Only Depression" family member, or the single "no mood disorder - yet" teenager in the family.

I would be interested to see how my rapid cycling, psychotic features DNA might vary from "only depression". I feel it is very important work and I'm delighted my family member wanted to sign me up. Of course I said yes!

I don't play with clinical trials of medication, but I am always happy to do anything diagnostic.

I envision a happy day where a child can be diagnosed at 2-3 years old and perhaps put of a very low dose of mood stabilizers, and NEVER manifest symptoms as a result. Wow, that would rock.

I was delusional and hallucinating at 4. I am very, very, good at hiding it.

Heather that is so NEAT. I'd love to be a part of a scientific study like that.

I'm soo fascinated by the DNA factor. What a cool stamp on scientific history you're making as being a part of it.

My mom is having hallucinations lately as she gets older. She still does not believe any one in the family has an actual disorder of any sort. She keeps insisting I come live with her to 'get better' and quit my job and just leave but she doesn't get that living/staying with the family stresses me out a billion times MORE than living on my own 5 hours away. Seriously, it's so hard to watch. My brother's a hoarder and I suspect undiagnosed bipo it's ruining his life. My mom I suspect has a serious anxiety disorder and undiagnosed OCD issues. She violently panics about EVERYTHING and talks about how she painfully dying all the time but refuses to believe any of it could possibly be a psych issue. She has what sounds like panic attacks where she can't breathe but she is just content with talking at length all the time about how she's dying. The panicked look in her eyes -- god I can't beleive she could possibly think it would be easier for me to 'heal' in that kind of environment. My family is just full of drama.

Houston Heather · 07-05-2009, 11:50 AM

My grandmother was a paranoid schitzophrenic. My sister was convinced she was possessed by a demon.

Lots of depression on both sides, Mom bipolar, and 2 out of 3 of her kids have diagnosed mood disorders. Out of Mom's 5 grandkids, only two DO NOT have a mood disorder.

I noticed my hoarding tendencies and panic attacks went WAY down on proper medication... I believe the lithium really helps with all the symptoms, across the board. But it could be the anti-d or antipsychotic. I'm not about to cut something out of my supplement routine and see what happens!

My husband was shocked one day when I started making a big "donate" pile of clothing, and bagged up a bunch of stuff for trash.

djalomo · 07-05-2009, 06:58 PM

My sister claims there is an incubus raping her in the middle of the night. She's dead serious. Her solution is prayer. It's not working.

faithgirl · 07-05-2009, 08:23 PM

Hi all,

Can someone elaborate on the hoarding issues? I can't say 'yes' to the buying sprees question when reading about symptoms of bipolar. However, I have a garage full of crap. I have boxes packed from years ago that I have no idea what is even in them. Some of it is stuff people have given me of course, but other stuff is what I have bought over the years. I have never had a lot of money to just go out and spend and spend. Although I have had shopping trips where I spent $100-$400 and since I usually bargain shop, it can amount to a lot of stuff. I would love to let go of this stuff, but I get out there and start looking at stuff and It's like I get confused or anxious about getting rid of it becuase I might need it someday. But no way does it compare to some of the horror stories you see on TV where people only have narrow paths cleared throughout their houses. It's hard to know if this is a symptom of bipolar or is it just my own lazy attitude about stuff that I need to get rid of and just haven't gotten around to it yet.

faithgirl · 07-05-2009, 08:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by djalomo

My sister claims there is an incubus raping her in the middle of the night. She's dead serious. Her solution is prayer. It's not working.

Wow. How scary. I don't have anything on that level going on in my life, however I can kind of sympathize. Being a Christian you can feel like you are such a let down to God if you have any kind of mental issues. Like I don't pray enough, or study my Bible enough or am not a mature enough Christian. I in no way believe that God has this veiw of me, but there is just this pressure sometimes from the Christian community that if you are having mental issues it is your fault, or the devil's fault. And if it's the devil's fault, then ultimately that is your fault for letting him get away with it. You know?

I've had a breakdown of sorts in my own Christian life becuase I have prayed and prayed for months now and nothing has changed. I am not better. But I know God is still God and He isn't the one doing this to me and I need to straighten out my beliefs. I can see if your sister got mixed up with people that have 'far out there' beliefs, that she could end up in a situation like that, and believing there's a mental condition associated with this would be a hard one to accept. I don't know if she has gotten mixed up with people like that, of course, it could just be a manifestation of her MI.

I used to go to a really strict church that really preached a lot of condemnation-I am glad I am out of there becuase if I were still there, I know they would be trying to cast the devil out of me. I had really severe depressive episodes when I went there.

CurveControl · 07-06-2009, 10:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by faithgirl

Hi all,

Can someone elaborate on the hoarding issues? I can't say 'yes' to the buying sprees question when reading about symptoms of bipolar. However, I have a garage full of crap. I have boxes packed from years ago that I have no idea what is even in them. Some of it is stuff people have given me of course, but other stuff is what I have bought over the years. I have never had a lot of money to just go out and spend and spend. Although I have had shopping trips where I spent $100-$400 and since I usually bargain shop, it can amount to a lot of stuff. I would love to let go of this stuff, but I get out there and start looking at stuff and It's like I get confused or anxious about getting rid of it becuase I might need it someday. But no way does it compare to some of the horror stories you see on TV where people only have narrow paths cleared throughout their houses. It's hard to know if this is a symptom of bipolar or is it just my own lazy attitude about stuff that I need to get rid of and just haven't gotten around to it yet.

That is why I pay the shrink, LOL. He will talk to you at lenghth, Be brutally honest Start jotting down notes of things you want to remember to mention.

Quote:

Originally Posted by faithgirl

Wow. How scary. I don't have anything on that level going on in my life, however I can kind of sympathize. Being a Christian you can feel like you are such a let down to God if you have any kind of mental issues. Like I don't pray enough, or study my Bible enough or am not a mature enough Christian. I in no way believe that God has this veiw of me, but there is just this pressure sometimes from the Christian community that if you are having mental issues it is your fault, or the devil's fault. And if it's the devil's fault, then ultimately that is your fault for letting him get away with it. You know?

I've had a breakdown of sorts in my own Christian life becuase I have prayed and prayed for months now and nothing has changed. I am not better. But I know God is still God and He isn't the one doing this to me and I need to straighten out my beliefs. I can see if your sister got mixed up with people that have 'far out there' beliefs, that she could end up in a situation like that, and believing there's a mental condition associated with this would be a hard one to accept. I don't know if she has gotten mixed up with people like that, of course, it could just be a manifestation of her MI.

I used to go to a really strict church that really preached a lot of condemnation-I am glad I am out of there becuase if I were still there, I know they would be trying to cast the devil out of me. I had really severe depressive episodes when I went there.

God made us. We are perfect in his eyes. I am glad you are out of that church. I actually Thank God for my unique quirks that make me 'me' as well as thanking Him for the good Pdoc I have and an work with. Oddly I also pray that he spare my kids this affliction, LOL
Lack of faith there, Huh? I know they have their own path and also are Perfect in God's eyes and He has them in His care, I just know how hard it can be. We always want to shelter our kids.

Please find a more progressive church. My Lutheran Church is very good, And St John's United Church of Christ is very progressive.

(Google it, They do have churches and brother churches all over)

Houston Heather · 07-06-2009, 01:03 PM

My belief is this: For whatever reason, God needs me just the way I am, brain damage, bipolar, and all. He needs my husband blind and barely able to walk.

It all works for HIM. He gave me lithium, and I take it.. try to live responsibly, and throw all my burdens on Him or I will go buggo.

We do reach a lot of people (I feel called to evangelism); so I know I'm doing my job.

Faith, it really depends. The idea of giving up any of my crap had me absolutely hysterical. Buying lots of crap, even on a budget, is a classic manic symptom. It's kind of a chicken/egg thing; but I know I'm a lot "better" now than I used to be.

The house is messy, but nowhere near as bad as it used to be.

djalomo · 07-06-2009, 01:03 PM

Gahhhh I ran out of my meds this morning. I've been following the refills like a hawk LOL. I called the docs office and they wanted me to get the pharmacy to fax the requests for refill and I've been calling both places every few hours LOL. The doc's office was like, "Do you need them today?" and I was like "YES. I DO."

I know I'm supposed to ask for that sooner but usually when I leave the doc gives me aprescription for what I'm GONNA need before my next visit but this new one didn't. Oh well lesson learned.

I've been feeling kinda unstable here and there since that hwole thing went down the other night. I've been leaning more depressed since then, but I can't sleep. I don't feel horribly, terribly mixed but I guess I am a little.

Houston Heather · 07-06-2009, 01:04 PM

I have about 3 months' worth of lithium stashed in my disaster kit.

During the hurricane, I took it out and sat with it, knowing no matter what happened, I wouldn't get sick!

CurveControl · 07-06-2009, 04:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by djalomo

Gahhhh I ran out of my meds this morning. I've been following the refills like a hawk LOL. I called the docs office and they wanted me to get the pharmacy to fax the requests for refill and I've been calling both places every few hours LOL. The doc's office was like, "Do you need them today?" and I was like "YES. I DO."

I know I'm supposed to ask for that sooner but usually when I leave the doc gives me aprescription for what I'm GONNA need before my next visit but this new one didn't. Oh well lesson learned.

I've been feeling kinda unstable here and there since that hwole thing went down the other night. I've been leaning more depressed since then, but I can't sleep. I don't feel horribly, terribly mixed but I guess I am a little.

That has happened to me before. Now I take all my bottles to the Doc appts so we can look right then at what we need refills on.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Houston Heather

I have about 3 months' worth of lithium stashed in my disaster kit.

During the hurricane, I took it out and sat with it, knowing no matter what happened, I wouldn't get sick!

I can picture you holding your stash, LOL

When I was in Illinois a little girl pulled the fire alarm and we had to evacuate. I very calmly grabbed my purse, keys and cell phone. Half way out I remembered I had left my MEDS!! I didn't panic about a possible hotel fire, No, I didn't freak till I realized I was drugless! Thank GOD it wasn't really a fire.
I hope that kid got a butt smack!

faithgirl · 07-06-2009, 05:15 PM

Thanks girls, I need the support!

I am really struggling right now. I wish I had not gone back to work. It was a huge mistake-I needed more time. My doctor will probably take me off again, but I still haven't gotten any money from our short term disability insurance through work. They just sent me a letter asking me for more details-like what exactly do I do from the moment I wake up to the moment I go to sleep while on leave. How do I even answer that question? This is not state disability, it is from a private insurance company. I don't know what to do now-do I ask for more time or not? It sounds to me like they are going to do what they can to keep me from getting the short term disability.

djalomo · 07-06-2009, 05:20 PM

Dammit. I'm so ticked. I left a message on Friday, called early this morning and they told me to have the pharmacy fax over refill requests. Had this done and followed up with both the doc and the pharmacy ALL day. The doc's office finally tells me if I don't get my refills by 4:30 to call the office again. I call at 4:30 and they say "Well, the doctor had to leave at 11. So, she only got around to your Lamictal prescrption."

OK, so fine, I'll just be nervous and anxious without the Xanax but whatever....but anyway I go to pick up my prescription and the pharmacy tells me that my doctor never got back to EITHER prescription. ARGGH.

So I only took 50mgs yesterday so I'd have 25mgs today, and i have nothing for tomorrow. Dammit. I already feel unstable and depressed and anxious. And I have to work directly with people training them tomorrow.

I HATE working around the people in my office on Tuesdays when I"m not stable.

I'm seriously almost considering an evening of wine and Benedryl and melatonin to calm my nerves.

But I know no matter what I do I'm going to wake up tomorrow SO DEPRESSED.

faithgirl · 07-06-2009, 05:25 PM

DJ-will your regular doctor give you an RX for these meds temporarily? Or what about calling the answering service and telling them it is an emergency-which it is-and having the doc call you? It would be a simple thing for her to call the meds into the pharmacy.

djalomo · 07-06-2009, 06:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by faithgirl

DJ-will your regular doctor give you an RX for these meds temporarily? Or what about calling the answering service and telling them it is an emergency-which it is-and having the doc call you? It would be a simple thing for her to call the meds into the pharmacy.

I thought about having her paged but they charge me extra, and I'm just annoyed with the whole situation. When they said "call back at 4:30" I was like hmmmm, if i wait till then then my regular doc will be gone too.

I dunno. I'm just not feeling this doc in general. We only had that one appointment but the fact that she was just SO insistent I take Abilify and not Lamictal was weird. And then the fact that she not only didn't check her messages this morning, or did and just didn't do anything about it, OR respond to faxes the pharmacy sent, OR communicate she left at 11 and didn't come back...hmmm.

I'm hoping to get my Lamictal first thing in the morning. My pharmacy's next door to work.

faithgirl · 07-06-2009, 07:06 PM

Seriously? They would charge extra for having her paged? I have never heard of that! I don't know, but she sounds kinda flakey. I know I put up with a lot of crap from the people in my doc's office, but he is awesome so I deal with it the best I can. At least you will get your Lamictal tomorrow. and if she isn't available to fill the other tomorrow, I would call your regular doc and see if he/she will.

Houston Heather · 07-06-2009, 07:31 PM

That sucks and blows.

If it were legal, I'd ride the Greyhound up with some lithium.

It's what, an hour or two?

djalomo · 07-06-2009, 07:39 PM

Thx Heather

Yeah this woman strikes me as just a little flakey. I'm keeping my next app. with her but I'm still on a wait list to get into the doc that my internist recommended, and my internist is fab so I'm sure he's good. I just worry about becoming dependent on places where I need to wait weeks to get into. But, I guess those types of offices tend to be more responsive than this one doc has been.

And I bet if I go to her house she has Abilify pens and towels and caps and merchandise everywhere. LOL!

CurveControl · 07-07-2009, 08:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by faithgirl

Thanks girls, I need the support!

I am really struggling right now. I wish I had not gone back to work. It was a huge mistake-I needed more time. My doctor will probably take me off again, but I still haven't gotten any money from our short term disability insurance through work. They just sent me a letter asking me for more details-like what exactly do I do from the moment I wake up to the moment I go to sleep while on leave. How do I even answer that question? This is not state disability, it is from a private insurance company. I don't know what to do now-do I ask for more time or not? It sounds to me like they are going to do what they can to keep me from getting the short term disability.

Have you seen a Pdoc yet? Or is your regular doc handling your psych meds?
You need someone to look at those forms, either the Dr office or a disability lawyer. Are we talking FMLA? Or something just through work? You may need to look into actusal short term disability, Mental illness IS grounds. There are some questions your employer can not ask. An insurance company CAN, and they are barred by law from sharing info with your employer.

Quote:

Originally Posted by djalomo

Thx Heather

Yeah this woman strikes me as just a little flakey. I'm keeping my next app. with her but I'm still on a wait list to get into the doc that my internist recommended, and my internist is fab so I'm sure he's good. I just worry about becoming dependent on places where I need to wait weeks to get into. But, I guess those types of offices tend to be more responsive than this one doc has been.

And I bet if I go to her house she has Abilify pens and towels and caps and merchandise everywhere. LOL!

IF so she needs sropped on her head. Truly DJ No doc I worked with in 25 years ever EVER let a sales pitch sway his or her medication choices. Ever. They may want to try out newer medications, on the basis that they are supposed to be 'better' but if you are on a regimine that works she may just be wanting to experiment for her own sake. Docs (and I feel very confident in saying this) do NOT work for Pharma, and no one isused for drug trials w/o their knowlege and a LOT of testing prior to the medical trial to make sure that candidates are suitable.
She may be a weirdo who is looking to see how new meds work on her own, But it isn't Pharma.

As you guys know it took me several tries to find a doc I clicked with. I wouldn't give a flakey doc another chance and I would not deal with an incompetent office, OR charges for emergency calls. Hos STUPID! Mental illness has no schedule! Could you imagine an OB charging extra for after hours calls??

I have had 2 'experiences' with my Rxs from my doc~ 1st time was sweet. He knew my Grandma had died and I was leaving town and called me (yep He called ME) on my cell 2 days into the trip to see how I was and if I had taken enough medications with me.
Then once, for whatever reason I didn't get my written Rx at my office visit and when the Pharm faxes it was refused. I has enough for a few days so I moved my appt up a week. I was irritated, But he truly thought he had written them out for me.

My only advice to both of ya is this~ GET THEE TO A PSYCH THAT YOU CAN WORK WITH, dangit!

djalomo · 07-07-2009, 10:24 AM

Gaaahhh it still didn't get filled. My doctor left yesterday on a family emergency at 11 and will not be in today, but another doctor on call is filling refill requests faxed from pharmacies today at 4:30. I hate the whole faxing back and forth thing - the pharmacy says they faxed both, doc's office said they only got one, then told me that one was refilled and it wasn't

blah blah blah. I had the pharmacy resend the second one today and the doc's office told me again to 'call at 4:30.'

So yesterday I only took 25mgs and today's just been cold turkey. Will I need to start over and titrate back up? God I hope not. booo.

CurveControl · 07-07-2009, 10:33 AM

no. not from missing just that bit. But IF they do not get that Rx called in and worked out you need to BEG the pharmacist for one or 2 to hold you over, AND page your regular MD, Let them know what is happening. You Can NOT abruptly stop lamictal. Or most other psych drugs.

Houston Heather · 07-07-2009, 05:08 PM

Thats a good idea, Molly.

I strained my wrist, can't type much. The brace helps though.

I got b-slapped with a nasty depression around lunch, took some quick release lithium and some berries and cream, went to bed. Better now, not great.

Obviously, tomorrow I need to get out and have fun...or I'll brood... not good.

faithgirl · 07-07-2009, 05:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CurveControl

Have you seen a Pdoc yet? Or is your regular doc handling your psych meds?
You need someone to look at those forms, either the Dr office or a disability lawyer. Are we talking FMLA? Or something just through work? You may need to look into actusal short term disability, Mental illness IS grounds. There are some questions your employer can not ask. An insurance company CAN, and they are barred by law from sharing info with your employer.

My only advice to both of ya is this~ GET THEE TO A PSYCH THAT YOU CAN WORK WITH, dangit!

I am still working with my regular doctor. The form is for short term disability through a private insurer through work. i am going to fill it out as best I can. I am hoping that since I already returned to work, they will pay it. This is also a follow-up form, not the original form that the doctor filled out when this first came about.

I did make an appointment with a pdoc today. Darn it all though, the earliest he can see me is September 2nd. My insurance is cruddy and there are only three board certified pdocs in my area. there are others calling themselves pdocs-but are not board certified. Would you think that was a wise choice to take on of them instead if they could get me in sooner? One pdco (not board certified) turned out to be a phd, not an md. How can he be a pdoc then? He couldn't prescribe meds, could he?

Anyway, I felt pretty decent today. I think it is the Klonopin that kind of keeps me on an even keel. If I can feel like I did today, I can make it until September. I would prefer to see the one my regular doc recommended just becuase it bothers me to go to one that i know nothing about and don't know if they are quacks or not.

djalomo · 07-07-2009, 06:23 PM

GAHHHHHH FML!!

I can't believe I forgot to follow up with my pdoc's office - they assured me it would get filled today. I was training my junior designer and work ended and I go to pick up my prescription and NOPE!! THe guy at the pharmacy said they'd already faxed it twice.

OMG I'm very thankful I'm not feeling absolutely HORRIBLE right now, but I can hear the ear ringing coming back and I'm starting to wanna just hole up and isolate.

I cannot believe they didn't fill it today.

I'm livid. I wish there were a manager I could complain to. lol. I would make a scene there but I'm sure everyone in the waiting room's been there done that so it would lose it's maximum comedic potential.

07-04-2009, 11:59 AM	#1
CurveControl Formerlychubchick Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Ohio Posts: 55,664 Gallery: CurveControl Stats: 200/ 182.0/173.5 /135 WOE: moderate carb, 30-60 grams Start Date: 3/25/08 sigh	*~~BiPolar Folks~~* Seemed like time to start a new one!

07-04-2009, 12:51 PM	#3
djalomo Way too much time on my hands! Join Date: Aug 2004 Posts: 19,182 Gallery: djalomo Stats: 132/ losing :) /110 WOE: Atkins Start Date: August 2004	Awww, CC. A house fulla crazy hard to beat. LOL! Sometimes when I go home I'm like and all at the same time. I'm so dreadfully bored today. I feel like hanging out and going antiquing or thrift-hopping or something, but of course I'm assuming everything's closed today. Boo. THere's a pool party going down today but I kinda don't feel like going to a party, and I definitely wanna stay away from the booze. Not to mention the carbs. Me and a friend went to Sprinkles yeterday and I broke my sugar ban AGAIN to get the second half of that cupcake I ate to celebrate my award and I'll be damned if I ain't jonesin' for another cupcake right now. LOL. I had to take .5mg of Xanax XR yesterday too because the whole deal with the other night was just at the forefront of my mind and killing me. I think the deal with Xanax is that the Lamictal makes me slightly unhungry, like my stomach feels a little wee bit "nervous" all the time, so once I pop the Xanax it's like "YUM! FAJITAS!! Bring me more!!" I didn't go overboard at lunch but I ate more than I've been eating lately. Oh well. I slept really well last night, and we're one day farther away from DJPalooza '09. __________________ “The truly creative mind in any field is no more than this: A human creature born abnormally, inhumanly sensitive." — Pearl S. Buck ===== "Your profile pic looks like youre calling for room service only to find that theyve ran out of caviar and now you cant decide whether to kill him or kiss him." ===== “I’m going to go as a journalist for Halloween. All I need for my costume is an empty bottle of vodka and my shattered dreams.”

07-04-2009, 02:45 PM	#4
Houston Heather Big Yapper!!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 8,921 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: 228/169/160 Waist: 42/31/31 WOE: Atkins 2002 Ongoing Weight Loss/pre maintenance Start Date: Feb 26, 2008 (second and last time)	I finally felt OK today - toxic yesterday from lithium. I NEED TO DRINK MORE FLUIDS. My urine is still pretty dark. Thank you both for your sweet comments! I thought the new av was more fun. I have at least one family member who is battling for a possible bipolar diagnosis. I would love to get her some lithium - it'll either help, or not. But it's "illegal" so I can't, especially since I work in a Federal Facility. My aunt has a family freind who just got hospitalized with dual diagnosis (chemicals + bipolar). I hope she can get on a good routine now. Ron gave me tomorrow off too, sweet! We just plan to take it easy. My cat brought home a large, live woodrat this morning. I had to locate it (in the bathroom trash can) and move it outside (oven mitts on both hands as I took the entire can outside). UGH. After that, I NEEDED my heavy whipping cream thing at Starbucks! We just can't have a boring time of it, can we? __________________ Don't just weigh, measure too! I'll be praying for you! (James 5:16) "From the beginning, you have made a refreshing jug of lemonade from all the lemons that life pitched your way."Zer "Look at you! You're a walking picnic!" - looking in my purse Learn about Bipolar Disorder Learn about Fetal Alcohol Syndrome I have tested thee in the furnace of affliction - Isaiah 48:10 Perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed 2 Cor. 4:9

07-05-2009, 08:23 PM	#11
faithgirl Very Gabby LCF Member!!! Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: ca Posts: 4,627 Gallery: faithgirl WOE: dunno	Hi all, Can someone elaborate on the hoarding issues? I can't say 'yes' to the buying sprees question when reading about symptoms of bipolar. However, I have a garage full of crap. I have boxes packed from years ago that I have no idea what is even in them. Some of it is stuff people have given me of course, but other stuff is what I have bought over the years. I have never had a lot of money to just go out and spend and spend. Although I have had shopping trips where I spent $100-$400 and since I usually bargain shop, it can amount to a lot of stuff. I would love to let go of this stuff, but I get out there and start looking at stuff and It's like I get confused or anxious about getting rid of it becuase I might need it someday. But no way does it compare to some of the horror stories you see on TV where people only have narrow paths cleared throughout their houses. It's hard to know if this is a symptom of bipolar or is it just my own lazy attitude about stuff that I need to get rid of and just haven't gotten around to it yet. __________________ Kathleen

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07-04-2009, 12:03 PM	#2
CurveControl Formerlychubchick Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Ohio Posts: 55,664 Gallery: CurveControl Stats: 200/ 182.0/173.5 /135 WOE: moderate carb, 30-60 grams Start Date: 3/25/08 sigh	Oh sweet heaven. I level out and DS starts a mild maybe hypomanic period. Aarrrgghhh!! He is about to twang my last nerve, LOL One would think I might have more patience. 2 (or 3) bipos in one house is about 2 (Or 3) too many! (No, he is not diagnosed, But it is hard to miss!)

07-05-2009, 01:09 AM	#5
djalomo Way too much time on my hands! Join Date: Aug 2004 Posts: 19,182 Gallery: djalomo Stats: 132/ losing :) /110 WOE: Atkins Start Date: August 2004	Did y'all know Tony Soprano takes Lithium and Prozac? Hee hee. I'm watching an old episode and thought of this thread.

07-05-2009, 11:14 AM	#7
Houston Heather Big Yapper!!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 8,921 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: 228/169/160 Waist: 42/31/31 WOE: Atkins 2002 Ongoing Weight Loss/pre maintenance Start Date: Feb 26, 2008 (second and last time)	Yeah. We're enrolled in the Bipolar family study. That should be very interesting. They do a long interview over the phone and send a DNA swab kit. I swab my cheek, possibly consent to release of records (I don't mind), and do the interview, and they try to figure out how my DNA is different from my "Only Depression" family member, or the single "no mood disorder - yet" teenager in the family. I would be interested to see how my rapid cycling, psychotic features DNA might vary from "only depression". I feel it is very important work and I'm delighted my family member wanted to sign me up. Of course I said yes! I don't play with clinical trials of medication, but I am always happy to do anything diagnostic. I envision a happy day where a child can be diagnosed at 2-3 years old and perhaps put of a very low dose of mood stabilizers, and NEVER manifest symptoms as a result. Wow, that would rock. I was delusional and hallucinating at 4. I am very, very, good at hiding it.

07-05-2009, 11:50 AM	#9
Houston Heather Big Yapper!!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 8,921 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: 228/169/160 Waist: 42/31/31 WOE: Atkins 2002 Ongoing Weight Loss/pre maintenance Start Date: Feb 26, 2008 (second and last time)	My grandmother was a paranoid schitzophrenic. My sister was convinced she was possessed by a demon. Lots of depression on both sides, Mom bipolar, and 2 out of 3 of her kids have diagnosed mood disorders. Out of Mom's 5 grandkids, only two DO NOT have a mood disorder. I noticed my hoarding tendencies and panic attacks went WAY down on proper medication... I believe the lithium really helps with all the symptoms, across the board. But it could be the anti-d or antipsychotic. I'm not about to cut something out of my supplement routine and see what happens! My husband was shocked one day when I started making a big "donate" pile of clothing, and bagged up a bunch of stuff for trash.

07-05-2009, 06:58 PM	#10
djalomo Way too much time on my hands! Join Date: Aug 2004 Posts: 19,182 Gallery: djalomo Stats: 132/ losing :) /110 WOE: Atkins Start Date: August 2004	My sister claims there is an incubus raping her in the middle of the night. She's dead serious. Her solution is prayer. It's not working.

07-06-2009, 01:03 PM	#14
Houston Heather Big Yapper!!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 8,921 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: 228/169/160 Waist: 42/31/31 WOE: Atkins 2002 Ongoing Weight Loss/pre maintenance Start Date: Feb 26, 2008 (second and last time)	My belief is this: For whatever reason, God needs me just the way I am, brain damage, bipolar, and all. He needs my husband blind and barely able to walk. It all works for HIM. He gave me lithium, and I take it.. try to live responsibly, and throw all my burdens on Him or I will go buggo. We do reach a lot of people (I feel called to evangelism); so I know I'm doing my job. Faith, it really depends. The idea of giving up any of my crap had me absolutely hysterical. Buying lots of crap, even on a budget, is a classic manic symptom. It's kind of a chicken/egg thing; but I know I'm a lot "better" now than I used to be. The house is messy, but nowhere near as bad as it used to be.

07-06-2009, 01:04 PM	#16
Houston Heather Big Yapper!!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 8,921 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: 228/169/160 Waist: 42/31/31 WOE: Atkins 2002 Ongoing Weight Loss/pre maintenance Start Date: Feb 26, 2008 (second and last time)	I have about 3 months' worth of lithium stashed in my disaster kit. During the hurricane, I took it out and sat with it, knowing no matter what happened, I wouldn't get sick!

07-06-2009, 05:15 PM	#18
faithgirl Very Gabby LCF Member!!! Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: ca Posts: 4,627 Gallery: faithgirl WOE: dunno	Thanks girls, I need the support! I am really struggling right now. I wish I had not gone back to work. It was a huge mistake-I needed more time. My doctor will probably take me off again, but I still haven't gotten any money from our short term disability insurance through work. They just sent me a letter asking me for more details-like what exactly do I do from the moment I wake up to the moment I go to sleep while on leave. How do I even answer that question? This is not state disability, it is from a private insurance company. I don't know what to do now-do I ask for more time or not? It sounds to me like they are going to do what they can to keep me from getting the short term disability.

07-06-2009, 05:20 PM	#19
djalomo Way too much time on my hands! Join Date: Aug 2004 Posts: 19,182 Gallery: djalomo Stats: 132/ losing :) /110 WOE: Atkins Start Date: August 2004	Dammit. I'm so ticked. I left a message on Friday, called early this morning and they told me to have the pharmacy fax over refill requests. Had this done and followed up with both the doc and the pharmacy ALL day. The doc's office finally tells me if I don't get my refills by 4:30 to call the office again. I call at 4:30 and they say "Well, the doctor had to leave at 11. So, she only got around to your Lamictal prescrption." OK, so fine, I'll just be nervous and anxious without the Xanax but whatever....but anyway I go to pick up my prescription and the pharmacy tells me that my doctor never got back to EITHER prescription. ARGGH. So I only took 50mgs yesterday so I'd have 25mgs today, and i have nothing for tomorrow. Dammit. I already feel unstable and depressed and anxious. And I have to work directly with people training them tomorrow. I HATE working around the people in my office on Tuesdays when I"m not stable. I'm seriously almost considering an evening of wine and Benedryl and melatonin to calm my nerves. But I know no matter what I do I'm going to wake up tomorrow SO DEPRESSED.

07-06-2009, 05:25 PM	#20
faithgirl Very Gabby LCF Member!!! Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: ca Posts: 4,627 Gallery: faithgirl WOE: dunno	DJ-will your regular doctor give you an RX for these meds temporarily? Or what about calling the answering service and telling them it is an emergency-which it is-and having the doc call you? It would be a simple thing for her to call the meds into the pharmacy.

07-06-2009, 07:06 PM	#22
faithgirl Very Gabby LCF Member!!! Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: ca Posts: 4,627 Gallery: faithgirl WOE: dunno	Seriously? They would charge extra for having her paged? I have never heard of that! I don't know, but she sounds kinda flakey. I know I put up with a lot of crap from the people in my doc's office, but he is awesome so I deal with it the best I can. At least you will get your Lamictal tomorrow. and if she isn't available to fill the other tomorrow, I would call your regular doc and see if he/she will.

07-06-2009, 07:31 PM	#23
Houston Heather Big Yapper!!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 8,921 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: 228/169/160 Waist: 42/31/31 WOE: Atkins 2002 Ongoing Weight Loss/pre maintenance Start Date: Feb 26, 2008 (second and last time)	That sucks and blows. If it were legal, I'd ride the Greyhound up with some lithium. It's what, an hour or two?

07-06-2009, 07:39 PM	#24
djalomo Way too much time on my hands! Join Date: Aug 2004 Posts: 19,182 Gallery: djalomo Stats: 132/ losing :) /110 WOE: Atkins Start Date: August 2004	Thx Heather Yeah this woman strikes me as just a little flakey. I'm keeping my next app. with her but I'm still on a wait list to get into the doc that my internist recommended, and my internist is fab so I'm sure he's good. I just worry about becoming dependent on places where I need to wait weeks to get into. But, I guess those types of offices tend to be more responsive than this one doc has been. And I bet if I go to her house she has Abilify pens and towels and caps and merchandise everywhere. LOL!

07-07-2009, 10:24 AM	#26
djalomo Way too much time on my hands! Join Date: Aug 2004 Posts: 19,182 Gallery: djalomo Stats: 132/ losing :) /110 WOE: Atkins Start Date: August 2004	Gaaahhh it still didn't get filled. My doctor left yesterday on a family emergency at 11 and will not be in today, but another doctor on call is filling refill requests faxed from pharmacies today at 4:30. I hate the whole faxing back and forth thing - the pharmacy says they faxed both, doc's office said they only got one, then told me that one was refilled and it wasn't blah blah blah. I had the pharmacy resend the second one today and the doc's office told me again to 'call at 4:30.' So yesterday I only took 25mgs and today's just been cold turkey. Will I need to start over and titrate back up? God I hope not. booo.

07-07-2009, 10:33 AM	#27
CurveControl Formerlychubchick Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Ohio Posts: 55,664 Gallery: CurveControl Stats: 200/ 182.0/173.5 /135 WOE: moderate carb, 30-60 grams Start Date: 3/25/08 sigh	no. not from missing just that bit. But IF they do not get that Rx called in and worked out you need to BEG the pharmacist for one or 2 to hold you over, AND page your regular MD, Let them know what is happening. You Can NOT abruptly stop lamictal. Or most other psych drugs.

07-07-2009, 05:08 PM	#28
Houston Heather Big Yapper!!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 8,921 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: 228/169/160 Waist: 42/31/31 WOE: Atkins 2002 Ongoing Weight Loss/pre maintenance Start Date: Feb 26, 2008 (second and last time)	Thats a good idea, Molly. I strained my wrist, can't type much. The brace helps though. I got b-slapped with a nasty depression around lunch, took some quick release lithium and some berries and cream, went to bed. Better now, not great. Obviously, tomorrow I need to get out and have fun...or I'll brood... not good.

07-07-2009, 06:23 PM	#30
djalomo Way too much time on my hands! Join Date: Aug 2004 Posts: 19,182 Gallery: djalomo Stats: 132/ losing :) /110 WOE: Atkins Start Date: August 2004	GAHHHHHH FML!! I can't believe I forgot to follow up with my pdoc's office - they assured me it would get filled today. I was training my junior designer and work ended and I go to pick up my prescription and NOPE!! THe guy at the pharmacy said they'd already faxed it twice. OMG I'm very thankful I'm not feeling absolutely HORRIBLE right now, but I can hear the ear ringing coming back and I'm starting to wanna just hole up and isolate. I cannot believe they didn't fill it today. I'm livid. I wish there were a manager I could complain to. lol. I would make a scene there but I'm sure everyone in the waiting room's been there done that so it would lose it's maximum comedic potential.