Hi, how many of you out there are Bipolar and have severe panic and anxiety attacks and cope without medication? I am bipolar and suffer from serious panic/anxiety disorder but can't stay on the meds. Too expenisve!!! I am a mom of 3 lil ones and a script for $300 a month is just not in the plan!! Any of you cope with out meds? there are times I try. All i hear from everyone is " its all in your head" and so I try to focus and deal and calm myself and there are times I jsut feel so out of control and lost and scared and just basically in adownward spiral.
209846
First and foremost pray and then start looking for information to help you with anxiety attacks because the Bible says Seek and you WILL (not may) find .Believe me, having been through anxiety attacks I know how motivated you are to get help. I believe you will get help and I am on your side in the battle.\n\nIt is very important to do this with the guidance of a trained Psychologist or Psychiatrist but there are ways to cope with this problem without medication in many instances.\n\nOften panic attacks are the result of some kind of psychological trauma. In my case I almost died from a heart problem. Most of my life I have not had them but when I did they were doozies. You must guard against incompetent Medical people. In my case the Dr. prescribed enough of a drug in the same class as Valium (can't remember the name now) to sedate a horse. These drugs do not address the underlying problem although in some severe cases may be necessary. The benzodiazapenes such as Valium and Xanax are addictive. The only drug I take now is a drug that regulates the heartbeat.\n\nBe particularly careful about the Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors such as Prozac, Zoloft and Paxil. Again in extreme cases they may be necessary and regardless always go with a Doctor's advice(just make sure they are competent). What I am stating is my own opinion derived from personal experience but it is well founded since I am well now and was at one point a basket case. I had a very bad experience with Zoloft, promptly quit and don't need it.\n\nHeres what I found:\n\nDon't laugh, but many times anxiety attacks are caused by hyperventilating. When you hyperventilate you are actually changing the chemical composition of the blood. It is a vicious spiral because the more you get anxious the more you hyperventilate which makes you more anxious ad infinitum. I am not talking about conciously hyperventilating but rather hyperventilation you are not necessarily aware of, basically improper and shallow breathing. A good site that explains it is http://www.healthyplace.com/Communities/anxiety/christine/treatment_breathing_techniques.htm\n\nSometimes if you will slow the rate at which you breathe and breathe from your diaphragm, you can mitigate your anxiety. Babies breathe from their bellies, adults and sometimes even children breathe in a shallow manner not extending their bellies out as they take in a breath.  Due to the excessive levels of stress all around us we become desensitized and don't even realize how much we have been affected. I remember going out into the country and for awhile the extreme quiet got on my nerves until I got used to it and then what an incredible good feeling came over me.\n\nThere is another technique for dealing with the acute portions of an anxiety attack. There is a book by Dr. Claire Weekes called Hope and Help for your Nerves. She talks about the 4 stages (1 Facing 2)Accepting 3) Floating \n4) Letting time pass . I highly recommend that you purchase her book . For me, the facing part is acknowledgeing that even though you feel as if you will die and it is extremely uncomfortable , you will not likely die. The accepting part is just acknowledging that since you will not likely die you can accept your condition. This becomes easier as the severity of the attacks begin to lessen. 3) Floating for me was a process of stepping outside of myself and observing objectively what was going on 4) Letting time pass is facilitated by realizing that the attack will diminish over time . This realization allows you to become occupied doing something else. I am by no means  a trained Psychologist but the techniques worked for me and I am definitely well now and I think it is possible you will be too. \n\nOh and be sure to get a complete medical workup. Sometimes anxiety attacks are realted to a thyroid condition or mitral valve prolapse.
432634
I have an anxiety disorder, but its an everyday occurence rather than on just the monthly gift. Yes that is panic attack sympton, but there are many others as well. Such as heart pounding, dizzyness, cold sweat, the feeling like you going to pass out, buzzing in the head, etc.\n\nSo when you get these feeling an you begin to worry about when it going to happen next and then that can lead to an anxiety disorder. But my question is; where is this anxiety coming from?, is there a specific worry or thought that the attack is centered around. If it becomes to much to handle, or worse go talk to a doctor and see what happening. I wish I can help you more but that odd that it only happens when you get the ole mighty gift. I wish you luck hun.
551224
Hi, I am sorry to hear this.  You didn't state if this has always happened to you or not?!  If it is something new you are experiencing then I would really speak to a Doc.  Sometimes a load of stress in other areas of your life can make you heart race and do funny things.  It isn't uncommon to have panic attacks when stressed or nervous.  There are probably a lot of options out there to help you with out taking meds. I would really talk to your family doctor as soon as you can, just to make sure there isn't something majorly wrong.  Take Care of yourself and remember you are the best judge of yourself and what you need.  Sending you lots of smiles :) :) :)
341666
Bipolars usually don't think there is anything wrong with them...they think it is everything else. They will not get help until they see it themselves and choose too. Just be supportive and loving.
8108
i personally have panic disorder. i've been told...get help from a mental health professional first and possibly medication. i've tried the medication, but i'm not one for pills. and honestly, talking to someone...doesn't make it go away! i've had to teach myself relaxation techniques. first and foremost, i repeat to myself over and over, "i'm okay, i'm fine, i'm not hurt, and this too shall pass". but it has affected me in everyday life, even when i'm not having an attack. truly it is all about your mind set. changing your way of thinking, and that can be the hardest part. i haven't found a concrete solution, i just take it day by day.
281023
Bipolar Disease runs in my family, so I always get a little concerned when my moods shift suddenly.  In your case, I would definately suggest talking to someone...doctor, friend, family...its always best to let someone know where your mind and heart are at.  Hormones can also play a big part in your emotions, especially if your menstruating or are pregnant.  I dont know where your from, but Im from MA., and its been raining here for weeks on end.  The weather can also have a strong effect on your moods.  Be well sister!
223261
Bi Polar disorder is characterised by 'mood swings'. In my case I did not sleep well for about a year then I stopped sleeping completely for about 8 days and I began to lose 'insight' - I began exercising in the middle of the night, had loads of energy. Didn't eat much either and started getting some strong 'notions' that people around me couldn't relate to. I talked a lot more than usual and it was hard to follow me, so I am told. This was my 'manic' phase. It was pretty scary. I then became severely depressed. It took me along time to find 'normal' moods again. It takes patience and a good deal of getting to know yourself better. (foods and drink that help/hinder - )\nI struggled with anxiety for years before this occurred. I have been on both Lithium and depakote. Am on (epilim) which is very similar to depakote now (it is easier on my stomach than Dep- but not licensed for BiPolar like Depakote- They are both Valproic acid essentially). It is hard to say how efective it is. You will put on a little weight but it can really help if you are prone to getting 'manic'.\nGood luck. If you want to chat further feel free to contact me and I would be happy to share any relevant experiences with you.
29110
Funny that you should mention losing your mother, because in an article I recently read about causes of bipolar, one that was expressedly listed was "a death in the family". I'm not sure of your age, as that may have something to do with it, but in these situations, see a psychologist, and if you are diagnosed with it (or not), I would get a few other opinions, because it is a major disorder. \n\nNot to call you crazy or any of that, but it's something to be taken very seriously, because it can really effect your life in a strongly negative way if you don't take care of it.\n\nAll people vary, and I don't know your age. For all I know this could be a part of puberty that just had coincidental timing or something of that nature. Surely see someone and do some research, I've included a great site to read up on it.\n\nhttp://bipolar.about.com/cs/bpbasics/a/what_causes_bp.htm
129351
That's WAY too many meds at the same time.  You should only be on one or two and lithium isn't for either disorder.  It's for bipolar disorder.  I think it's time to stop seing all three doctors and get another opinion at least until you have a diagnosis that matches one.
135721
I am mentally ill. I can say it. I have had to endure 30 brain surgeries and I suffer, believe me- I SUFFER- some lingering side effects of it. The surgery was for a birth deffect that wasn't detected til I was 19. \n I now suffer from severe bio-polar disorder and, without my meds, I can have mild schitzophrenic tendencies .  Ok, cool. As Long as I knowwww what is wrong with me and how to treat it, I'm ok. I can handle it. \n\n   This person in your house, that might or might not have mental problems, may not even realize they have a problem. I know it took 3 years for us to decide/realize what was wrong with me.  Ever hear of an intervention. or are you the only one who feels this person has a problem? \n    No , you don't have the right to tell someone to 'get off the drugs' when they aren't on any and you KNOW that for a fact. ( Maybe tell them to start taking the RIGHT ones..it took me 8 years to get to the right 'cocktail' of meds I am on now so that I don't talk to the trees and don't cry when they don't answer me. LOL its not thaaat bad,  just kidding  a little But it does take time and cooperation on EVERYONE's part. ) Go to the person , offer what you've observed and offer to HELP said person get the help that they NEED, or to at least see someone and determine if they need anything. It sounds simple, but it isn't. I know. I had to hospitalize my husband twice in the first year we were married before we got him properly diagnosed/medicated for bipoler problems. It stinks and its hard, but up front is the only way to go. Just don't let that person doubt your love and  support for them. \nBy the way... you don't wanna know what all I am on!!
498038
I have bipolar myself so I have some idea of what your going through. what you should do is contact a government agency. I go to a place called MHMR it stands for Mental Health Mental Retardation. They can help you in any way that you need it. They can give you advice on what steps to take with your son. They can set up appointments for your son when he gets out. Just to meet with him and talk with him maybe regulate his meds and see about having him see a therapist on a regular basis. I really hope this helps you out. I really feel for you and the situation your in. Good luck to both you and your son.
570610
I am also bipolar so I can somewhat relate to how you feel. I get through each of the swings by reminding myself that it is temporary and will pass if I can just hang on long enough.. I also know what it is like to have that detached/possessed feeling with the identity crisis that comes along.. a feeling of being trapped within myself and it is frustrating to me that nobody has the power to show me the way out of the maze.. \nMy only advice is that you do the nessary research online and find places with personal experiences of the people that share your gifted curse.. you will be surprised by how not alone you are in the world. Many people are suffering through it all just like you .. and they have developed their own individual ways of dealing with this gifted curse of an affliction. \nI constantly remind myself that I did not choose to be this way, I absolve myself of the blame and responsibility. I encourage those around me to educate themselves of what it means or is to be bipolar to help them understand and cope with me and my occasional irrationality. Knowledge is the answer. Here are a couple websites that I find to motivate me in times of darkness and knock me down when I am rushing by the world like a possessed rocketship. \nlots of blogs here...\nhttp://www.healthcentral.com/bipolar/weblogs.html\npersonal accounts here...\nhttp://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/gettinghelp/helpothers/otherscope.cfm\nClinical reference here...\nhttp://www.reutershealth.com/wellconnected/doc66.html\nmore personal accounts here...\nhttp://www.dbsalliance.org/Stories/StoriesBipolar.html\nremember these things..\n1. knowledge is power \n2. you are not alone\n3. it is just a phase of the illness.. it will pass\n4. take your meds.. they keep the extremes away\n5. take it day by day\nGood luck.. feel free to contact me if you need to reach out to someone that can relate to it all\nGood Luck :)
205205
My mother was bipolar and had to take Lithium all of her life.  This was something that she was born with and finally when she was in her early thirties she was diagnosed and received treatment.  She suffered a lot in her life, but once she got medication and therapy to understand her mental illness, she was more able to cope and be happier in her life.  It was 1972 when she started Lithium.  Today doctors know so much more about this illnes which stems from having a chemical inbalance.  I think it is a good thing that your son has been diagnosed now instead of years form now.  He will be in treatment and he will be helped.  Early intervention is on his side.  Be thankful that he is getting help now and hopefully will be avoiding years of unbearable pain.  Before my mother was diagnosed she tried multiple ties to commit suicide.  I am hopeful that your son won't go through that because he is getting help now!  He will learn with the help of therapy and faithfully taking his medications how to cope with this.  As far as you feeling guilty, this is a normal reaction considering he is your son, your flesh and blood.  But, the truth of the matter is that you are not to blame.  He was born with this.  It has to do with the makeup of the brain. You are being supportive and doing the right thing to let the professionals take over at this point.  Remember, you got him the help that he needs.  You love him and you'll be there for him.  I hope this helps you.  Hang in there, you sound like a good mom!
203272
Being alone.  I try to surround myself with people that I love at all times. I'm on the phone, on the computer....all the time. I have panic attacks when my children get sick for fear of living my life without them. Don't know why really. I think it was brought on in the last couple years when my mother got caught up in methamphetamines. I haven't had a mother ever since. Some questions are better left unanswered.
202133
Hi Kim, my former boyfriend was bipolar.  It was an interesting relationship.  You can email me if you'd like, tinabuddesmail@yahoo.com
590080
I am bipolar with mild OCD, My husband is currently hospitalized from a more severe case of the same problems.  I can't stress enough how important it is to get help for this sooner rather than later, believe it or not it can get WAY worse than your current situation.  Don't wait until you lose the job or trash your house or hurt yourself to get help. The bad news is mental health is decades or even centuries behind physical health, so our treatment options are somewhat limited.  Often behavioral or cognitive therepy can be extremely effective, even without drugs. If you don't have a psychologist, get one ASAP. \n\n            Is there a reason you don't want to use medication?  No one WANTS to use drugs if they are unnessasary, but I wonder if the anxiety about drugs is really worse than the anxiety we feel due to the compulsions. Today's drugs are compartively safer and often have fewer side effects - my only side effect from the drug I have been on for 7 years now is a mildly increased number of cavities. Even if you do decide to use drugs, talk therepy is still and important step.  If you have trouble affording it, call some local churches, they often have a marrage and family counselor on staff who will take a lower payment.  If you have insurance - your therepy, should be covered.  A good therepist should be able to help you explore non-drug options for your particular issues.  I reccomend you read up on it for yourself as well.   All the information the doctors have is availible to you at the library and online.  Know the DSMV-IV definition and the American Psyciatric Association's Treament Guidlines for your condition.  Go to a NAMI (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill)class.  You can find all of these online.  Always remember, this trouble is not because you are stupid or lack will power.\n\nOne idea for this compulsion, create a "uniform" for work.  If you are close to anyone there, and feel you can share this with them, you might even take them shopping with you.  If you wear the same one or two things every day, you will know you won't be sent home, because you weren't yesterday.  Many "normal" professionals do this, just changing the scarf or necklace and wearing basically the same thing every day.  It saves a fortune in wardrobe costs, and it has worked for me before.  Even if it works, this is a temporary fix - you need to have a therepist to help you work through the inevitable future compulsions.  Goodness, I sound like my mother.\n\nThat is all I can think of for now. Just talk, talk, talk.  Nothing fights stigma and shame like communication. Get as many positive, sane friends to put good thoughts in your head as you can.  It will give you a mental army to fight the bad thoughts.  May God bless you with an easier road in the future.
566080
i wish so much of the time that i could control these things.  my ocd and depression feel like they are killing me sometimes.  and i can't do anything about it.  why are we riddled with pills for the rest of our lives?  it's like there really is just one choice.  maybe have you tried therapy?  \n~you are not alone.