BiPolar~ Because we need our own thread~ - Page 6

sweet&sugarfree · 06-17-2008, 06:19 AM

Hi Everyone, Just wanted to say hi! I hit the gym this morning early and that helps my mood. I am going to try to go everyday for at least 30 mins. I have an appt with my pdoc today who I havent seen in a while so I am excited. Hope everyone has a great Tuesday! Molly

Houston Heather · 06-17-2008, 11:54 AM

Great Molly! I got up early and did my weight workout. I felt very mellow all morning. I love that benefit.

Really, workouts are a good mood stabilizer. I won't go off my pills but they sure help!

People either didn't hear about the vending machine or they didn't want to steal - it wasn't bad at all. DH apologized again for being a butt so I'm happy.

And I have tomorrow off! We always take split days off because the machines act up if you're not around to watch them. Kind of like children or pets. I plan to run, lift weights, and go to Walmart (with a shower in between of course!). Maybe a little houscleaning or laundry. I might play fashion show and try on some stuff that was too big for me last time.

My 16's are getting baggy but according to my measurements and a size chart I am still a solid 18. Hey, new clothes are new clothes.

Jazlyn · 06-17-2008, 01:01 PM

Hi everyone,

I'm glad I found this thread. I haven't had time to read through the whole thing yet.

I have been sleeping most of the day. I think it's the seroquil my doctor added to my mix. He had me start cutting the seroquil in half and hopefully I can go off of it completely. Then I can think about exercizing more. I was on geodon and that made me crazy hyper. I don't know which is worse.

Anyway, I just wanted to say hi and hopefully I can read through the whole thread soon.

Houston Heather · 06-17-2008, 04:31 PM

Welcome aboard, Jaz!

Before I was diagnosed, I had problems with exercise manias. It's so nice to have the exercise nicely contained to one corner of my life, not an all-consuming obsession.

My parents just invited us on a cruise next year. Thank God I've already lost 31 pounds, and I have a solid routine. I want to look great in front of the stepkids and their families. Yes, I am vain.

Doing weights first really set me up for a nice day. Even stuff that pisses me off didn't piss me off, and I know my Lithium isn't that good!

CurveControl · 06-18-2008, 09:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jazlyn

Hi everyone,

I'm glad I found this thread. I haven't had time to read through the whole thing yet.

I have been sleeping most of the day. I think it's the seroquil my doctor added to my mix. He had me start cutting the seroquil in half and hopefully I can go off of it completely. Then I can think about exercizing more. I was on geodon and that made me crazy hyper. I don't know which is worse.

Anyway, I just wanted to say hi and hopefully I can read through the whole thread soon.

How long have you been on it? what dose? does it make you crave carbs?

I am still taking 100 mg of seroquil, I am afraid to make the change to go off! I an afraid I won't sleep! It made me feel 'stupit' while I was building up the dose, but not anymore. The only issue I have with it is weight. I only take it at bedtime, and 100 mg of Lamectal in the morning.

Houston Heather · 06-18-2008, 01:57 PM

Here's a random question that came to me a few years ago.

Are you ever tempted to make some kind of "art" out of your discarded pill bottles? I've probably gone through a hundred by now.

CurveControl · 06-18-2008, 03:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Houston Heather

Here's a random question that came to me a few years ago.

Are you ever tempted to make some kind of "art" out of your discarded pill bottles? I've probably gone through a hundred by now.

when I was in girlscouts my Mother came up with some Idea that used pill bottles and we made ornaments that clipped to the lights on the tree, Like stained glass or something.

it was some 30 years ago~ I don't remember the details, I just remember being morified that my mom got the Pharm to donate 30 or so bottles.

Houston Heather · 06-18-2008, 03:15 PM

It seems wasteful to throw them away, but I have no use for them.

Oh well. I could attach them to the house like the "beer can house" guy did.

I don't think the homeowner's association would like it! I wonder how many bottles I could put up before I got the letter.

It's funny, whenever I PMS I crave chicken. The other 3 weeks of the month, I loathe chicken.

cenicienta · 06-18-2008, 09:48 PM

You might check with one of your local veterinarians as far as disposing of pill bottles. We had a vet that used to get all of our old pill bottles. It saved him money (therefore, we saved money too when we went to see him) this way since he had no need to order any of his own.

DS (who is five and has autism) went into his child pdoc on Tuesday. He was diagnosed as having bipolar disorder (although docs don't like to use that term for kiddos). I guess it is pretty common to have children on the autism spectrum who end up having bipolar as a comorbid condition. He originally went to the child pdoc due to his extreme aggression. He was put on Prozac, which didn't help the aggression very much. The doc doubled the Prozac to see how my son would react to it. My son didn't respond much to it. He couldn't sleep as well as he could before. He was waking up way too early. I know a lot of autistic children have sleep problems, but my son never did until his doc upped his Prozac (this is what made the doc think bipolar).

So, long story short, DS is on a lower dosage of Prozac now and is also starting up on 125 mg./day of Depakote for 10 days. After that, 125 mg. two times a day. Then, of course, blood tests for liver function after two full weeks on it. He took his first dose last night and had no ill effects this morning. His mood was a little off and on today and I could tell that his thinking wasn't quite where it should be. The kid is a computer genius and couldn't figure out how to start one of the games he always plays today. My mother is on 1000 mg. of Depakote, so I guess Depakote is an all in the family type of medication. As you know, I am still not on mood stabilizers, but with my family history, maybe I'll be on Depakote soon. My pdoc mentioned something like Lamictal for me though.

I was reading through comments on crazymeds and it said that Lamictal isn't good if you are prone to headaches and it sometimes causes insomnia. Both these side effects scare me. I can't think of anything worse than insomnia. I already am taking Ambien for that and I am not on any mood stabilizer yet. As for headaches, I used to get migraines. I went on Zoloft and haven't had a migraine since. I do, however, still have at least 3 minor headaches a week. So maybe Topamax would be better for me? The thought of feeling stupid doesn't appeal to me in the least. DS's doc told me that is only something that happens when the dose isn't right. Once you are stabilized, your mind starts to function again.

CurveControl · 06-19-2008, 10:14 AM

Quote:

I was reading through comments on crazymeds and it said that Lamictal isn't good if you are prone to headaches and it sometimes causes insomnia. Both these side effects scare me. I can't think of anything worse than insomnia. I already am taking Ambien for that and I am not on any mood stabilizer yet. As for headaches, I used to get migraines. I went on Zoloft and haven't had a migraine since. I do, however, still have at least 3 minor headaches a week. So maybe Topamax would be better for me? The thought of feeling stupid doesn't appeal to me in the least. DS's doc told me that is only something that happens when the dose isn't right. Once you are stabilized, your mind starts to function again.

I love crazymeds! I am MissM on the message board there.
I take lamictal and insomnia WAS one of my pre medicated issues. The seroquel and xanax at bestime make insomnia a non issue. I took Amien for years. In fact the first day we got them in at my Docs office (I was a MA in the office) as samples I started taking it, with my Docs blessing so that was a lot of years ago!
I am thinking of trying to drop the seroquel, But I am hesitant. The years of insomnia make me fearful of that. I have Klonopin to take at bedtime in place of the Seroquel but...........

Anyway I have not had any of the Lamectal side effects at all.

Houston Heather · 06-19-2008, 04:09 PM

Today is a BAD day for depression. I'm having some side effects, too.

I took everything a little earlier than usual. Hopefully I'll be OK tomorrow. This is a vicious b*tch of an illness.

Cenicienta, I don't know about your son, but my symptoms are so horrible I don't mind the side effects much. I can be very slow-thinking at times on Lithium, but not so often now that I am lowcarbing. It was a lot worse in the beginning and before I went low-carb. Today I got a little dizzy too, which is unusual for me. I'd still rather that than symptoms.

I can't help but think, if my symptoms are this bad WITH medication, I'd probably be dead without it! I know I would.

Off I go to eat and swallow more pills.

Here's to hoping tomorrow is a better day.

CurveControl · 06-20-2008, 09:41 AM

It is hard to manage this thing, isn't it Heather.

I was talking to my kids yesterday and the subject of depression came up. DD said "Remember when we lived in IL and you slept for like 6 months?" And DS said, "Oh Yeah, Mom, That sucked."

No, I really do NOT remember. I KNOW I have been seriously, deeply depressed at times, But I do not 'remember' them.
6 MONTHS??? I took 6 Momths from my Family??

And I do not remember it?

Houston Heather · 06-20-2008, 02:15 PM

WHOA.

That's a tough one.

I seem to be OK using exercise to whack it when it gets bad. Lets hope I can keep it up. I know I will.

Sometimes I wish God didn't want me to be so strong.

CurveControl · 06-21-2008, 11:23 AM

Today is Good. I feel energetic, like I can get some stuff DONE today. But not in a manic/ Hypomanic kind of way. I just feel Good.

Racquel · 06-21-2008, 11:59 AM

Today is so-so. I'm cleaning my 4-wheeler and we're supposed to be going out later. Not sure where as the trails are flooded right now.

DBF said it's a good night to stay home, chill and have a few beers. I am wondering if he's sick. Usually we need to be out socializing. He said it and I asked if I needed to feel his head to make sure he wasn't sick.

A little perturbed today but it's the same 'ol, same 'ol. We had taken his son to ball practice a few weeks ago. Last night the ex called and chewed his butt for having me there.

Apparently people were asking why he had the nerve to bring **gasp** his girlfriend. He doesn't want to make waves so I had to stay home today.

I'm tired of having to make up excuses everytime little dude asks me why I can't go here or there. One of these days "because mom is a ******" is gonna slip out.

Last week she called to say that even if we'd get married someday (NOT gonna happen!!!) that I'll still be nothing to them. Geez, get over it! Anyone else had to deal with an ex from he!!? How do I do it? I've offered to meet her and talk so she knows I'm not some loon but she says what she has to say to me can't be said in front of others.

I've done nothing wrong except get into a relationship with someone who's ex divorced them. I could see her anymosity of he'd left her for me or heck even if he'd walked out on her but she kicked him out and we didn't even know each other at that time. I think she honestly thought he'd go running right back and because he didn't I'm getting the brunt of it. Next she'll have me banned from the town she lives in! She was mad once (another butt chewing) because we'd stopped at a friend of DBF's. Well, apparently it was "rude" because this guy also happens to be her friend.

OK, just had to get that out cuz it's been eating at me since yesterday. I know myself well enough to know that I stuff things in and then I blow. Other than that it's a great day. Sun is out although it's a bit windy here. I've got on shorts and I'm not wanting to crawl into a hole. We were looking at pics one night and I told DBF "this is my favorite picture ... I was thin and tan". He said "hun, you're smaller now than you were then". WHY can't we see it? I asked my ex about it and he said "yep, you were bigger then". I guess I just don't understand why it takes so long for the mind to catch up? I'm sitting here in size 6 shorts and I still feel horribly fat.

I think I need to start working out again. Was talking with DBF's brother last night and he was telling me about the gym he goes to. Said I might want to check it out because they also offer pilates. Then he said I need to try the boot camp class. Sure ... so they can haul me out on a stretcher?

Hope everyone has a great weekend!!!

CurveControl · 06-21-2008, 12:15 PM

Vent away Raquel!

I have never had to deal w/ Steps or Exes Thank God.

Racquel · 06-21-2008, 12:25 PM

It just really pisses me off and I'm not sure what to do. DBF won't say anything because he doesn't want to fight with her but I don't think he really understands how much it hurts me ... even though I've told him.

Both my ex's are great. Went thru a very rough patch in the beginning with the first one but after 15 years we get along now. His wife on the other hand is another story. Can not stand me ... never has. I think that stems from me having been so close to my former MIL and my son being the first grandbaby. We're still pretty close ... she's a great lady. But, from day one it was "he was my first, he's special". They've been very close since he was born. This didn't set well when ex and wife had their kids. I can understand that though but she and former MIL don't really get along.

Now my second ex ... we're best of friends. Which I'm sure is weird to many but even he and DBF get along very well ... shoot the crap together, have a few beers together, and are planning to go hunting together this fall.

My ex is dating a great lady! She treats my son awesome and my ex thinks the world of her kids.

I just don't know how to handle the crap with DBF's ex. She's bad-mouthed me without even knowing me. Said that because my boys live with their dad's it makes me a horrible mom.

What she doesn't understand is that my oldest CHOSE to move in with his dad when he was almost 16. It was his choice and I was all for it because I'm glad they get along that well. My little guy stayed with his dad because he's better equipped to be the full-time parent and I wasn't about to rip the child away from someone he's been attached to since he was born. Plus, they are moving here soon.

cenicienta · 06-21-2008, 04:08 PM

Had to discontinue Depakote with my little guy. We are on day 4 of taking the Depakote and I noticed three dime sized raised bumps on him. At first I thought that they may be bug bites since is outside an awful lot. Then I remembered that anticonvulsants sometimes cause an allergic reaction in some people. He only has like three of the big spots (on his legs and one on his arm). But it was enough to scare me. Maybe they really are bug bites, but I'd rather be safe than sorry. They honestly don't look like my son's typical bug bites. He never has his bites swell up like these do. Nor do his bug bites itch so much.

Spoke to my pharmacist, but didn't call son's pdoc. Most likely the pdoc will tell me to discontinue the med anyway. My son doesn't seem to have any other really bad symptoms. He had indigestion last night, but is acting fine today, just trying to itch those spots. Will call the doctor on Monday to see what we can do.

Houston Heather · 06-21-2008, 06:01 PM

Eek. That's scary.

Raquel, my dad had custody of me and I believe giving it up was the most loving thing my mother could do. She was bipolar, alcoholic and not fit. Instead of dragging me through a trial and trying to bash each other, she agreed to give up custody. If the kids are happy, that's what matters. I admire you for having good relationships with the fathers.

Cen, I am glad you caught the bumps! It can be really tough finding the right medication routine. My sister almost had a very bad reaction to Lamictal so I'm glad I never tried it.

I'm a little bit manic but not bad. It's a lot better than the depression, and a good rugged workout tomorrow will burn off the extra energy.

CurveControl · 06-23-2008, 09:04 PM

My day has been up and down. Moody as heck today! Good thing I was off the PG for most of it!

I am about to med up and head to bed, But thought I would stop in and wave to Y'all!

DS has an appointment with the Orthopedist (3 months Post Op YAY!)
and then I teach a class till 9 so I don't know if I will be online at all tomorrow!

cbabe · 06-23-2008, 09:23 PM

Hi everyone

it's great to see a thread like this. I don't think I'm bipo but I have definite times when I wonder. I'm not sure how much the criteria varies for being "classified" as bipolar.

I have panic disorder and suffer from anxiety and depression. It started a few months after my first son was born about 8 years ago. After 4 trips to the ER thinking I was having a heart attack, I was finally referred to a psychologist who told me that I actually had post-partum depression which manifested itself in the form of PD.

I was on Paxil (which has sexual side effects that I hate) then Celexa which seemed to help without that dreaded side effect. I don't want to depend on medication forever but I'm thinking I may need it again.

I go through days where I feel mildly depressed, other days where I feel as if I'm sinking and frankly, it scares me sometimes. I don't feel suicidal, but I have had times where I've thought that it would be easier if I just ceased to exist anymore. It's easy to feel as though I'm helpless. I have obsessive thoughts and no matter how hard I tell myself to let it go, I just can't sometimes. I dwell. I'm a dweller.

Other times I feel really good. Those days aren't as frequent as the bad ones but I'll be in a good mood, make jokes, feel like it's all gonna be ok, feel like I wanna do something spontaneous, crazy and fun. Of course, I never do but I have a strong urge to.

I'm not sure that qualifies as manic but I have definite peaks and valleys. It's not a fun way to live.

thoughts welcome...

CurveControl · 06-23-2008, 09:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cbabe

Hi everyone

it's great to see a thread like this. I don't think I'm bipo but I have definite times when I wonder. I'm not sure how much the criteria varies for being "classified" as bipolar.

I have panic disorder and suffer from anxiety and depression. It started a few months after my first son was born about 8 years ago. After 4 trips to the ER thinking I was having a heart attack, I was finally referred to a psychologist who told me that I actually had post-partum depression which manifested itself in the form of PD.

I was on Paxil (which has sexual side effects that I hate) then Celexa which seemed to help without that dreaded side effect. I don't want to depend on medication forever but I'm thinking I may need it again.

I go through days where I feel mildly depressed, other days where I feel as if I'm sinking and frankly, it scares me sometimes. I don't feel suicidal, but I have had times where I've thought that it would be easier if I just ceased to exist anymore. It's easy to feel as though I'm helpless. I have obsessive thoughts and no matter how hard I tell myself to let it go, I just can't sometimes. I dwell. I'm a dweller.

Other times I feel really good. Those days aren't as frequent as the bad ones but I'll be in a good mood, make jokes, feel like it's all gonna be ok, feel like I wanna do something spontaneous, crazy and fun. Of course, I never do but I have a strong urge to.

I'm not sure that qualifies as manic but I have definite peaks and valleys. It's not a fun way to live.

thoughts welcome...

It is tough, be it BiPolar or Unipolar depression.
Definetly tell your Pdoc what you posted to us, especially the obsessive thoughts, and let him/her sort it out, Thats why they get the big bucks, LOL

Racquel · 06-24-2008, 11:11 AM

cbabe -- definitely talk to your doc. It's no fun feeling out of sorts.

I got a job this morning!!!

Oh my mother would be so proud ... it's a deli position at the local gas station.

Ya know what though ... I'm excited about it. I'm not a female who was made to sit in an office all day ... I need to be out with people and doing something creative. I think that's why I like the bartending so much. When I told her I was doing that it was met with an "oh" filled with a great deal of disdain. Call me the blacksheep of the family. I'm not the "professional", I feel no need to have the best of everything and I'm much happier not trying to "keep up". My brother is the opposite ... married, no kids but 3 dogs, big fancy 5 bedroom, 6 bath home with the best furnishings driving his 2 new Lexus's. I don't need that. I like the small town you can blink and almost miss.

I don't care that I'm not rolling in it ... I care that I'm happy. Haven't spoken to my mom in about a month now and I've had nobody put me down in that time.

Claims adjustor is going to look at my car this week so hopefully that will be in the shop soon. Just not sure how I'm going to get to work in the meantime but we'll figure something out. DBF is going to call and see if he can use his brothers cycl.

I'd bike (and boy would THAT burn my butt and legs off) but having to be there at 3:45 in the morning makes it a bit difficult. We'll get it sorted out ... just can't wait to get my car back.

Hope everyone is having a good day!

06-17-2008, 11:54 AM	#152
Houston Heather Blabbermouth!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 5,654 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: 228/171/150 WOE: Atkins 2002 Ongoing Weight Loss Start Date: Feb 26, 2008	Great Molly! I got up early and did my weight workout. I felt very mellow all morning. I love that benefit. Really, workouts are a good mood stabilizer. I won't go off my pills but they sure help! People either didn't hear about the vending machine or they didn't want to steal - it wasn't bad at all. DH apologized again for being a butt so I'm happy. And I have tomorrow off! We always take split days off because the machines act up if you're not around to watch them. Kind of like children or pets. I plan to run, lift weights, and go to Walmart (with a shower in between of course!). Maybe a little houscleaning or laundry. I might play fashion show and try on some stuff that was too big for me last time. My 16's are getting baggy but according to my measurements and a size chart I am still a solid 18. Hey, new clothes are new clothes. __________________ Don't just weigh, measure too! "From the beginning, you have made a refreshing jug of lemonade from all the lemons that life pitched your way. " - Zer "Unwanted help is harm." - my husband, Ron Learn about Bipolar Disorder Learn about Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Philippians 4:13 - I can do all things in Him who strengthens me. 1 Corinthians 6:20 You were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.

06-21-2008, 11:59 AM	#165
Racquel Blabbermouth!!! Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: SW Wisconsin Posts: 6,745 Gallery: Racquel Stats: 230+/147/120	Today is so-so. I'm cleaning my 4-wheeler and we're supposed to be going out later. Not sure where as the trails are flooded right now. DBF said it's a good night to stay home, chill and have a few beers. I am wondering if he's sick. Usually we need to be out socializing. He said it and I asked if I needed to feel his head to make sure he wasn't sick. A little perturbed today but it's the same 'ol, same 'ol. We had taken his son to ball practice a few weeks ago. Last night the ex called and chewed his butt for having me there. Apparently people were asking why he had the nerve to bring gasp his girlfriend. He doesn't want to make waves so I had to stay home today. I'm tired of having to make up excuses everytime little dude asks me why I can't go here or there. One of these days "because mom is a *****" is gonna slip out. Last week she called to say that even if we'd get married someday (NOT gonna happen!!!) that I'll still be nothing to them. Geez, get over it! Anyone else had to deal with an ex from he!!? How do I do it? I've offered to meet her and talk so she knows I'm not some loon but she says what she has to say to me can't be said in front of others. I've done nothing wrong except get into a relationship with someone who's ex divorced them. I could see her anymosity of he'd left her for me or heck even if he'd walked out on her but she kicked him out and we didn't even know each other at that time. I think she honestly thought he'd go running right back and because he didn't I'm getting the brunt of it. Next she'll have me banned from the town she lives in! She was mad once (another butt chewing) because we'd stopped at a friend of DBF's. Well, apparently it was "rude" because this guy also happens to be her friend. OK, just had to get that out cuz it's been eating at me since yesterday. I know myself well enough to know that I stuff things in and then I blow. Other than that it's a great day. Sun is out although it's a bit windy here. I've got on shorts and I'm not wanting to crawl into a hole. We were looking at pics one night and I told DBF "this is my favorite picture ... I was thin and tan". He said "hun, you're smaller now than you were then". WHY can't we see it? I asked my ex about it and he said "yep, you were bigger then". I guess I just don't understand why it takes so long for the mind to catch up? I'm sitting here in size 6 shorts and I still feel horribly fat. I think I need to start working out again. Was talking with DBF's brother last night and he was telling me about the gym he goes to. Said I might want to check it out because they also offer pilates. Then he said I need to try the boot camp class. Sure ... so they can haul me out on a stretcher? Hope everyone has a great weekend!!! __________________ If you reach for the sun, your heart will always be warm. One step at a time ... and soon you will be running miles just to see WHERE you can go. "The most difficult thing in life is to know yourself." Thales* Started in a size 20+ (not sure cuz stopped buying clothes) ... now size 5.

06-17-2008, 06:19 AM	#151
sweet&sugarfree MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Dec 2005 Posts: 1,837 Gallery: sweet&sugarfree Stats: 196.6/170.4/156 Start Date: January 1, 2005	Hi Everyone, Just wanted to say hi! I hit the gym this morning early and that helps my mood. I am going to try to go everyday for at least 30 mins. I have an appt with my pdoc today who I havent seen in a while so I am excited. Hope everyone has a great Tuesday! Molly

06-17-2008, 01:01 PM	#153
Jazlyn MAJOR LCF POSTER! Join Date: Feb 2004 Posts: 2,164 Gallery: Jazlyn Stats: 290/243/160	Hi everyone, I'm glad I found this thread. I haven't had time to read through the whole thing yet. I have been sleeping most of the day. I think it's the seroquil my doctor added to my mix. He had me start cutting the seroquil in half and hopefully I can go off of it completely. Then I can think about exercizing more. I was on geodon and that made me crazy hyper. I don't know which is worse. Anyway, I just wanted to say hi and hopefully I can read through the whole thread soon.

06-17-2008, 04:31 PM	#154
Houston Heather Blabbermouth!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 5,654 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: 228/171/150 WOE: Atkins 2002 Ongoing Weight Loss Start Date: Feb 26, 2008	Welcome aboard, Jaz! Before I was diagnosed, I had problems with exercise manias. It's so nice to have the exercise nicely contained to one corner of my life, not an all-consuming obsession. My parents just invited us on a cruise next year. Thank God I've already lost 31 pounds, and I have a solid routine. I want to look great in front of the stepkids and their families. Yes, I am vain. Doing weights first really set me up for a nice day. Even stuff that pisses me off didn't piss me off, and I know my Lithium isn't that good!

06-18-2008, 01:57 PM	#156
Houston Heather Blabbermouth!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 5,654 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: 228/171/150 WOE: Atkins 2002 Ongoing Weight Loss Start Date: Feb 26, 2008	Here's a random question that came to me a few years ago. Are you ever tempted to make some kind of "art" out of your discarded pill bottles? I've probably gone through a hundred by now.

06-18-2008, 03:15 PM	#158
Houston Heather Blabbermouth!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 5,654 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: 228/171/150 WOE: Atkins 2002 Ongoing Weight Loss Start Date: Feb 26, 2008	It seems wasteful to throw them away, but I have no use for them. Oh well. I could attach them to the house like the "beer can house" guy did. I don't think the homeowner's association would like it! I wonder how many bottles I could put up before I got the letter. It's funny, whenever I PMS I crave chicken. The other 3 weeks of the month, I loathe chicken.

06-18-2008, 09:48 PM	#159
cenicienta Senior LCF Member Join Date: Aug 2004 Posts: 623 Gallery: cenicienta	You might check with one of your local veterinarians as far as disposing of pill bottles. We had a vet that used to get all of our old pill bottles. It saved him money (therefore, we saved money too when we went to see him) this way since he had no need to order any of his own. DS (who is five and has autism) went into his child pdoc on Tuesday. He was diagnosed as having bipolar disorder (although docs don't like to use that term for kiddos). I guess it is pretty common to have children on the autism spectrum who end up having bipolar as a comorbid condition. He originally went to the child pdoc due to his extreme aggression. He was put on Prozac, which didn't help the aggression very much. The doc doubled the Prozac to see how my son would react to it. My son didn't respond much to it. He couldn't sleep as well as he could before. He was waking up way too early. I know a lot of autistic children have sleep problems, but my son never did until his doc upped his Prozac (this is what made the doc think bipolar). So, long story short, DS is on a lower dosage of Prozac now and is also starting up on 125 mg./day of Depakote for 10 days. After that, 125 mg. two times a day. Then, of course, blood tests for liver function after two full weeks on it. He took his first dose last night and had no ill effects this morning. His mood was a little off and on today and I could tell that his thinking wasn't quite where it should be. The kid is a computer genius and couldn't figure out how to start one of the games he always plays today. My mother is on 1000 mg. of Depakote, so I guess Depakote is an all in the family type of medication. As you know, I am still not on mood stabilizers, but with my family history, maybe I'll be on Depakote soon. My pdoc mentioned something like Lamictal for me though. I was reading through comments on crazymeds and it said that Lamictal isn't good if you are prone to headaches and it sometimes causes insomnia. Both these side effects scare me. I can't think of anything worse than insomnia. I already am taking Ambien for that and I am not on any mood stabilizer yet. As for headaches, I used to get migraines. I went on Zoloft and haven't had a migraine since. I do, however, still have at least 3 minor headaches a week. So maybe Topamax would be better for me? The thought of feeling stupid doesn't appeal to me in the least. DS's doc told me that is only something that happens when the dose isn't right. Once you are stabilized, your mind starts to function again.

06-19-2008, 04:09 PM	#161
Houston Heather Blabbermouth!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 5,654 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: 228/171/150 WOE: Atkins 2002 Ongoing Weight Loss Start Date: Feb 26, 2008	Today is a BAD day for depression. I'm having some side effects, too. I took everything a little earlier than usual. Hopefully I'll be OK tomorrow. This is a vicious b*tch of an illness. Cenicienta, I don't know about your son, but my symptoms are so horrible I don't mind the side effects much. I can be very slow-thinking at times on Lithium, but not so often now that I am lowcarbing. It was a lot worse in the beginning and before I went low-carb. Today I got a little dizzy too, which is unusual for me. I'd still rather that than symptoms. I can't help but think, if my symptoms are this bad WITH medication, I'd probably be dead without it! I know I would. Off I go to eat and swallow more pills. Here's to hoping tomorrow is a better day.

06-20-2008, 09:41 AM	#162
CurveControl Formerlychubchick Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Ohio Posts: 42,465 Blog Entries: 8 Gallery: CurveControl Stats: 200/ 186.0 /135 WOE: moderate carb, 30-60 grams Start Date: 3/25/08 sigh	It is hard to manage this thing, isn't it Heather. I was talking to my kids yesterday and the subject of depression came up. DD said "Remember when we lived in IL and you slept for like 6 months?" And DS said, "Oh Yeah, Mom, That sucked." No, I really do NOT remember. I KNOW I have been seriously, deeply depressed at times, But I do not 'remember' them. 6 MONTHS??? I took 6 Momths from my Family?? And I do not remember it?

06-20-2008, 02:15 PM	#163
Houston Heather Blabbermouth!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 5,654 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: 228/171/150 WOE: Atkins 2002 Ongoing Weight Loss Start Date: Feb 26, 2008	WHOA. That's a tough one. I seem to be OK using exercise to whack it when it gets bad. Lets hope I can keep it up. I know I will. Sometimes I wish God didn't want me to be so strong.

06-21-2008, 11:23 AM	#164
CurveControl Formerlychubchick Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Ohio Posts: 42,465 Blog Entries: 8 Gallery: CurveControl Stats: 200/ 186.0 /135 WOE: moderate carb, 30-60 grams Start Date: 3/25/08 sigh	Today is Good. I feel energetic, like I can get some stuff DONE today. But not in a manic/ Hypomanic kind of way. I just feel Good.

06-24-2008, 02:03 PM	#174
cbabe Junior LCF Member

06-21-2008, 12:15 PM	#166
CurveControl Formerlychubchick Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Ohio Posts: 42,465 Blog Entries: 8 Gallery: CurveControl Stats: 200/ 186.0 /135 WOE: moderate carb, 30-60 grams Start Date: 3/25/08 sigh	Vent away Raquel! I have never had to deal w/ Steps or Exes Thank God.

06-21-2008, 12:25 PM	#167
Racquel Blabbermouth!!! Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: SW Wisconsin Posts: 6,745 Gallery: Racquel Stats: 230+/147/120	It just really pisses me off and I'm not sure what to do. DBF won't say anything because he doesn't want to fight with her but I don't think he really understands how much it hurts me ... even though I've told him. Both my ex's are great. Went thru a very rough patch in the beginning with the first one but after 15 years we get along now. His wife on the other hand is another story. Can not stand me ... never has. I think that stems from me having been so close to my former MIL and my son being the first grandbaby. We're still pretty close ... she's a great lady. But, from day one it was "he was my first, he's special". They've been very close since he was born. This didn't set well when ex and wife had their kids. I can understand that though but she and former MIL don't really get along. Now my second ex ... we're best of friends. Which I'm sure is weird to many but even he and DBF get along very well ... shoot the crap together, have a few beers together, and are planning to go hunting together this fall. My ex is dating a great lady! She treats my son awesome and my ex thinks the world of her kids. I just don't know how to handle the crap with DBF's ex. She's bad-mouthed me without even knowing me. Said that because my boys live with their dad's it makes me a horrible mom. What she doesn't understand is that my oldest CHOSE to move in with his dad when he was almost 16. It was his choice and I was all for it because I'm glad they get along that well. My little guy stayed with his dad because he's better equipped to be the full-time parent and I wasn't about to rip the child away from someone he's been attached to since he was born. Plus, they are moving here soon.

06-21-2008, 04:08 PM	#168
cenicienta Senior LCF Member Join Date: Aug 2004 Posts: 623 Gallery: cenicienta	Had to discontinue Depakote with my little guy. We are on day 4 of taking the Depakote and I noticed three dime sized raised bumps on him. At first I thought that they may be bug bites since is outside an awful lot. Then I remembered that anticonvulsants sometimes cause an allergic reaction in some people. He only has like three of the big spots (on his legs and one on his arm). But it was enough to scare me. Maybe they really are bug bites, but I'd rather be safe than sorry. They honestly don't look like my son's typical bug bites. He never has his bites swell up like these do. Nor do his bug bites itch so much. Spoke to my pharmacist, but didn't call son's pdoc. Most likely the pdoc will tell me to discontinue the med anyway. My son doesn't seem to have any other really bad symptoms. He had indigestion last night, but is acting fine today, just trying to itch those spots. Will call the doctor on Monday to see what we can do.

06-21-2008, 06:01 PM	#169
Houston Heather Blabbermouth!!! Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 5,654 Gallery: Houston Heather Stats: 228/171/150 WOE: Atkins 2002 Ongoing Weight Loss Start Date: Feb 26, 2008	Eek. That's scary. Raquel, my dad had custody of me and I believe giving it up was the most loving thing my mother could do. She was bipolar, alcoholic and not fit. Instead of dragging me through a trial and trying to bash each other, she agreed to give up custody. If the kids are happy, that's what matters. I admire you for having good relationships with the fathers. Cen, I am glad you caught the bumps! It can be really tough finding the right medication routine. My sister almost had a very bad reaction to Lamictal so I'm glad I never tried it. I'm a little bit manic but not bad. It's a lot better than the depression, and a good rugged workout tomorrow will burn off the extra energy.

06-23-2008, 09:04 PM	#170
CurveControl Formerlychubchick Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Ohio Posts: 42,465 Blog Entries: 8 Gallery: CurveControl Stats: 200/ 186.0 /135 WOE: moderate carb, 30-60 grams Start Date: 3/25/08 sigh	My day has been up and down. Moody as heck today! Good thing I was off the PG for most of it! I am about to med up and head to bed, But thought I would stop in and wave to Y'all! DS has an appointment with the Orthopedist (3 months Post Op YAY!) and then I teach a class till 9 so I don't know if I will be online at all tomorrow!

06-23-2008, 09:23 PM	#171
cbabe Junior LCF Member Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Quad Cities, IL Posts: 34 Gallery: cbabe Stats: 163/146.5/135 (5'4) WOE: low carb Start Date: April 2008	Hi everyone it's great to see a thread like this. I don't think I'm bipo but I have definite times when I wonder. I'm not sure how much the criteria varies for being "classified" as bipolar. I have panic disorder and suffer from anxiety and depression. It started a few months after my first son was born about 8 years ago. After 4 trips to the ER thinking I was having a heart attack, I was finally referred to a psychologist who told me that I actually had post-partum depression which manifested itself in the form of PD. I was on Paxil (which has sexual side effects that I hate) then Celexa which seemed to help without that dreaded side effect. I don't want to depend on medication forever but I'm thinking I may need it again. I go through days where I feel mildly depressed, other days where I feel as if I'm sinking and frankly, it scares me sometimes. I don't feel suicidal, but I have had times where I've thought that it would be easier if I just ceased to exist anymore. It's easy to feel as though I'm helpless. I have obsessive thoughts and no matter how hard I tell myself to let it go, I just can't sometimes. I dwell. I'm a dweller. Other times I feel really good. Those days aren't as frequent as the bad ones but I'll be in a good mood, make jokes, feel like it's all gonna be ok, feel like I wanna do something spontaneous, crazy and fun. Of course, I never do but I have a strong urge to. I'm not sure that qualifies as manic but I have definite peaks and valleys. It's not a fun way to live. thoughts welcome...

06-24-2008, 11:11 AM	#173
Racquel Blabbermouth!!! Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: SW Wisconsin Posts: 6,745 Gallery: Racquel Stats: 230+/147/120	cbabe -- definitely talk to your doc. It's no fun feeling out of sorts. I got a job this morning!!! Oh my mother would be so proud ... it's a deli position at the local gas station. Ya know what though ... I'm excited about it. I'm not a female who was made to sit in an office all day ... I need to be out with people and doing something creative. I think that's why I like the bartending so much. When I told her I was doing that it was met with an "oh" filled with a great deal of disdain. Call me the blacksheep of the family. I'm not the "professional", I feel no need to have the best of everything and I'm much happier not trying to "keep up". My brother is the opposite ... married, no kids but 3 dogs, big fancy 5 bedroom, 6 bath home with the best furnishings driving his 2 new Lexus's. I don't need that. I like the small town you can blink and almost miss. I don't care that I'm not rolling in it ... I care that I'm happy. Haven't spoken to my mom in about a month now and I've had nobody put me down in that time. Claims adjustor is going to look at my car this week so hopefully that will be in the shop soon. Just not sure how I'm going to get to work in the meantime but we'll figure something out. DBF is going to call and see if he can use his brothers cycl. I'd bike (and boy would THAT burn my butt and legs off) but having to be there at 3:45 in the morning makes it a bit difficult. We'll get it sorted out ... just can't wait to get my car back. Hope everyone is having a good day!