To answer you question about depression in bipolar, the DSM-IV-TR diagnostic criteria are the same as that used to diagnose an ordinary major depression. There is no research that I know of that identifies the diagnostic criteria in bipolars as quantitatively or qualitatively different than that found in a non-bipolar population. In other words, there is nothing that I know of that proves that bipolars have more or worse symptoms than non-bipolars during a severe major depression. Some bipolars do not respond well to antidepressants and must be treated with mood stabilizers or antipsychotics or some combination thereof. My chronic severe depression is treated with 3 antidepressants, a mood stabilizer, an antipsychotic, a neuroleptic and other meds. As to recommendations for your situation, I refer you to your psychiatrist. I am not a doctor and MDJ prohibits members from providing medical diagnosis, treatment, or professional medical advice. However, members may share their experiences as bipolar individuals with their diagnosis, treatment and professional medical advice they have received. I wish you the very best and encourage you not to give up. Relief is possible. Bipolar II, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Attacks, Agoraphobia & PTSD; Alcoholic in recovery since 3/21/07.
Aplenzin 522mg; Pristiq 200mg; Lamictal 400mg; Geodon 160mg; Ativan 1mg TID; Deplin 15mg; Xanax PRN; Metoprol 100mg.
"Don't give up 5 minutes before the miracle happens."
"My little dog - a heartbeat at my feet." ~Edith Wharton
"Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle." ~Ian MacLaren (Usually mis-attributed to Plato)
"And the day came when the risk it took to remain tight inside the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom." ~Anais Nin
My support and advice is not a replacement for medical diagnosis, treatment, or professional medical advice. |
