Posted by BarbaraCat on October 31, 2002, at 23:47:56
In reply to Recognizing / Treating Cyclothymia, posted by fluffy on October 26, 2002, at 15:16:11
Dear Fluffy,
I second Polarbear's advice. If you even suspect you might fall within the bipolar spectrum, go with a mood stabilizer first and foremost, an AD second, or even skip the AD altogether and go with a benzo chaser. Antidepressants alone are bad news for bipolars, cyclothymics, or whatever, who cares what the moniker may be for our disorder. As a recently diagnosed bipolar, I finally understand why I've gone bezerk on SSRI's. They work for awhile, and then the manic agitated depression breaks through and the SSRI exacerbates the nightmare.My father and his whole family were classic bipolars, although never treated. I finally understand him and have utmost compassion and sorrow for his suffering while he was alive. As far as creativity, I'm a musician and dancer, as well computer geek (for a living, only for a living). I can say that the disorganization of a brain fry does not behoove creativity, unless you aspire to Hironimous Bosch or Edvard Munch-dom. The creative edge will always be there, as long as the motivation is kept alive. Move the energy by physical activity if you're able. I'd suggest Lamictal since it has the best antidepressant profile of all the anti-bipolar meds. Good luck and be very good to yourself.
poster:BarbaraCat
thread:125331
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20021025/msgs/126027.html