When do you give in and start taking medication?

[Phylis81]

Struggled with cyclothymia (mild bi-polar) for years without medication - well I've coped ok but I've probably been a nightmare to be around for the past 10 years or so!

Anyway it's got to the point where I genuinely do not see myself coping much longer. I have so many issues right now - final year of a degree, stressful job, relationship problems, money worries, ADHD son ... I'm trying, I really am but my moods are all over the place. A few nights ago I was arguing with my partner (well to be fair, he was being a twat but I allowed myself to get riled) and I got so wound up I almost hit him. I am NOT like that. Yesterday morning I was so down I was about to call my university and throw the towel in on the degree (as well as my relationship!!).

Today I'm much better but I stink of bleach as I've been frantically cleaning - not because I care about the house but because if I stop and allow myself to think, I know what will happen.

The gist of it is I'm no longer coping. Do I agree to medication then? :-(

I would go and see the GP and see what he thinks.

I agree, go and see your GP

I'm not a fan of medicating unnecessarily which is fine when you can cope. When you're no longer coping, as it appears you aren't, then at the very least you need to have a chat with your doctor to discuss your options. If meds are the best option it doesn't have to be forever.

I am not the best educated on the medication available for your condition (or many conditions, being honest) but this is a chronic condition, no? Is it not in your best interests to manage this condition, using drugs if need be... If you were asthmatic most people would advise you to take the medication that is available and would make your life 20 times easier!

Is this because the medication available has side effects that you're not happy with? Or is it because you feel you should be able to do without them?

Remember, medication isn't necessarily for ever. I've had long meds free spells between taking various meds when I've needed to.

I've asked myself that and the best advice I've ever seen came from Agatha Christie's autobiography:

When you find yourself crying uncontrollably because the butter hasn't been delivered, recognise you are ill and you should do something about it.

Or words to that effect. Just before she disappeared.

Insert your term of choice for non delivery of butter.

I cried last night because I'd forgotten to do the packed lunches and it was late. I'm making the appointment today x

Well done Phylis81

Never heard that before ancient.

No, I hadn't until I read it.

But actually it expresses a truth for me, that you have got things seriously out of balance and you need to recognise it. Obviously we can all cry over little things but generally we know we are being silly and get over it.

It's the uncontrollable/ inconsolable that gives the clue, as well as the butter.

I know that if I burst into tears every time people ask me how I am or offer sympathy I need CBT or ADs.

And well done, hope it goes well. Takes courage to do.