Lori
I too have bi-polar. I now know that's what it's been all my life (40 years), I was finally properly diagnosed at 36. I've been on Epival and clomiprimine. Epival for the bi-polar and clomiprimine for OCD (Obsessive compulsive disorder). These two nightmare disorders lead to me abusing alcohol. When one thing is under control, the other two are raging. It is a nightmare. I wouldn't wish this on anyone. I'm a rapid cycler, so my moods can change hour by hour. I can't plan anything in advance, cuz I never know how I'll be feeling. This makes it hard on hubby and kids (21 and 19). People say they understand, but I think they actually don't care to hear about it. To them it's not a real problem. Can you let me know more about how you're handling it, and give me more info on your situation. I find the longer I'm on these meds the 'episodes' seem to last longer and the symptoms more severe. Before I was diagnosed I remember only 3 maybe 4 episodes a year, and they only lasted a matter of weeks. This seems to be a continual state of mind, with no time off for good behavior. The Epival levels off your mood swings, but hell, I miss the laughter. It's almost like it's taken away the 'up-times' and left me with the 'down-times', I've lost interest in everything. It's really hard, like I said, any info you can give me would be greatly appreciated. Take care, Lori