Please help - bipolar

[DoNotGoGently]

I think that I may be bipolar. That's the first time Ive ever acknowledged it in public. I feel very depressed at the moment - have been for several days. Been reading old threads on here and I fit so many of the symptoms. I certainly have had manic periods in the past as well as periods of depression. This one is really awful. I'm functioning and going to work mainly because the thought of being on my own is frightening. But at work I just feel distanced like I'm acting myself. I just don't know what to do next. Should I go to my GP. I'm not sure that I'd know what to say to him. Any advice would be appreciated.

Dear OP, I'm so sorry you're feeling so bad. It is a good idea go to see your GP, to talk things over, I'm sure he'll be understanding.

I would write down what you want to say, it may help if you become lost for words. Go to your GP, as far as you can, explain your symptoms, and then say you worry you might be bipolar.

I am not bipolar but have Asperger Syndrome, was only diagnosed just over a year ago, but felt the same concerns about going to the Dr - would he/she believe me? She did, well at least enough to refer me for a specialist diagnosis.

sorry you are feeling so awful, agree that you must see your GP - although they can't diagnose you, they can refer you to a psychiatrist for assessment. It can take several months to assess properly, as most doctors will want to see you in various phases of the illness and monitor your response to treatment before slapping the label on you.

you might find MDF (the bipolar organisation) helpful, there is a helpline and discussion boards on their site. Think it can help to talk to people who have experienced similar symptoms and found ways of coping.

MDF used to run self-management courses which were complete life-savers, not sure if these are still going or whether you can download any of the material but have built my life around those principles and stayed more well for much longer than before, recommend them highly. Good luck!

Thanks to everyone who answered. I am feeling a bit better today but am definiately going to see my GP.