Saw psychiatrist today....confused - - bipolar or something else??

[electra]

I've been struggling with my mental health for some time. Today I saw a new psychiatrist. He spent ages discussing my case history with someone while I sat outside getting worried.

The last psychiatrist I saw thought bipolar, but a firm dx was never made...my new psychiatrist thinks bipolar seems to fit but he is confused by some aspects of my profile, especially that when I have manic symptoms I'm more agitated than euphoric. So he wants me to see a CPN for a while to get more of an idea. He said it's a big thing to have a label but that I need one if I'm to get the correct treatment and he wants to be sure it's right.

I think this is a sensible approach but now I'm worried what else could be wrong....anyone else experienced this?

[UnderRated]

I think this all sounds quite positive. A dx may help both with treatment and understanding what happens, when, how & how best to deal with it/ prevent it happening or going to extremes.

I have been given an incorrect dx in the past which caused huge problems and was then discounted but the fallout will never end. It is so important to get the right diagnosis.

Did he mention what else he was considering? Or do you have an idea of what it could be?

He sounds very thorough and understanding. I really hope this helps, Electra.

[UnderRated]

Are you ok, Electra?

[electra]

Hi, yes I am ok. I agree with you - I don't want to be palmed off with any old meds and I think it shows he's a good psych. I guess it's fear of the unknown now...

[electra]

Thanks btw x

[tiredemma]

What a fantastic psychiatrist, they are often so hasty to give a diagnosis and dole out meds.

[electra]

I thought so tiredemma - I guess it will be worth taking time to find the right options for me.

[zippitippitoes]

i know i said i was going to bed but i just noticed this

oh and now i have forgotten what i was going to say maybe i will remember in bed

welli think he sounds good i hope i see someone like that

[tiredemma]

Of course Electra, so much better to explore all avenues rather than just slap a label on you.

Zippi-
Hope you manage to get this kind of care from yourself.

[electra]

Zippi - keep in touch, I will be thinking of you and hope that you see someone good x

[electra]

I have an update.....after a disastrous week or so my psychiatrist suggested that maybe I should spend some time in hospital...but I have people visiting every day now to do an assessment.

Last week I saw a psychiatrist who feels that I don't have depression at all but most likely borderline personality disorder. His reasons make sense. Apparently I have developed "invalid coping mechanisms" to deal with life and I have a skewed perception of reality......apparently this is all due to my upbringing and he thinks the fact I'm an only child plays a role.....

But nothing is decided completely yet.