Bipolar Depression

I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in February after a suicide attempt. I read everything I could get my hands on and have asked my therapist a thousand questions but I still feel so lost with everything. I feel as if there is a piece to the puzzle of me understanding that is missing. I was wondering if anyone has felt this feeling and can help me identify it ? Thanks in advance.

Hi Tyra,

It's not that long since February, so I think you need to give yourself time. Are you seeing the therapist regularly? Talking things through should help a lot.

Usually it takes a 3-part combination to successfully deal with bipolar disorder: 1) the right medication or combination of meds; 2) a healthy lifestyle, based on what works for you in terms of eating, sleeping, exercise, etc.; and 3) getting your head straight, which includes dealing with emotional and family issues, learning to drop negative thoughts, etc.

This is a lot to accomplish in a few months, so be kind to yourself and take it slowly. Researching bipolar is great, so you're already off to a good start. Another thing you might try is joining a support group. I've found the one I go to immensely helpful. Ask your therapist where a local group is meeting.

Good luck!

Lynne
Read my blog at Lynne's Bipolar Blog

Tyra,

I can't add much beyond what Lynne has already said. I will say that we can all sympathize, we have felt this way ourselves, and these feelings might continue to come back in the future.

I don't expect to understand this disorder, however I strive to understand what it does to me, and what to expect. Watch for your mind or body sending you hints of what's coming. If you can anticipate and prepare for changes, you can much more effectively handle them. Personally, I find mood charting extremely helpful, I wrote about moodcharting a month or so ago, you can read that here: The Benefits of Mood Charting If things start to slip, I can try to avoid triggers that may send me into a full-blown depression. Ditto when things start to climb so that I avoid mania.

Things will get better, they always do. I wish you only the best in the future!

I know exactly the feeling you are talking about. I think I researched too much and I too felt like I was missing something - that I was just too dense or stupid and didn't get it. I have always felt that knowledge is power but it seems now the more I learn the less I know. So I don't have any advise but you are not alone.
Dolle