Bipolar Depression

I'm on 1500mg of Depakote and 15mg of Abilify daily, and I am still feeling slightly manic from time to time. When I forget to take my meds for even just a few days (which happens about every two weeks), the symptoms get much worse very quickly. I feel elated and fine and good, but I'm told by others that I'm irritable and quick to anger and forgetful.

Plus, I've been in this manic episode for almost 9 months now. Is this normal?

My psychiatrist is no help. I don't really like her much and she doesn't spend much time with me when I see her. I have a therapist I trust, but he can't dispense medications.

Anyone have any advice or help for me?

Is it possible for you to change psyciatrists? If not, work at communicating with your present one. Be firm when you tell her that your meds are not working for you. That is, if you've given them time to work. Taking them regularly will help--when you go off the schedule, that could hinder their effectiveness. Is there someone who can help remind you to take them?

Good luck, and let us know how you're doing.

Lynne

Author of The Bipolar Dementia Chronicles

I have a similar problem. I've been having smaller episodes. I talked to my doctor about it and his response was just keep taking your meds and everything will be alright. Well, two weeks ago I spent the afternoon watching a football game. My team lost and I became irrattionally angry. I left my house to get cigarettes and ended up gone for two days. Remember, I was taking all of my meds. I didn't call my wife. I went to three strip clubs, several casinos. I was out of control. Truthfully, after i ran out of money and calmed down I was suicidal. When my wife finally got me home we called my doctor and got his service. He still hasn't called me back. I am stable, but it is a daily struggle and I am scared. I am looking for a new doctor. I am taking seroquel and equetro. Not sure if it is the meds or dosages or just me.

I too have had recurring manic episodes. I hear voices alot and then they go away for two or so weeks then they come back. Sometimes they say nice things, but for the most part they scare the living hell out of me. I cant sleep nor eat. I never forget my meds and I have a lengthy and regular sleep schedule. I rarely drink alcohol and try to keep my stress level to a minimum. I have been through 6 different meds in the last 10 months and I finally settled down with Risperdal. It was great for a good long two months and then I had another manic episode and the fear and panic set in. After 6 meds, 3 Psyches and 4 therapists, I thought I had finally found the right med and the right Dr. NOw I'm having these frightening episodes again and Ive stopped menstrating. On to a new med they say. It seems that even with the most rigid schedule, sometimes your mind just doesnt click right with the cocktail.I trust my newest Dr. but I still have issues with my dear Risperdal.
I will miss it, but I have to move on to the next and exciting phase of the pharmaceutical dance. It's a crapshoot.

Bipolarbear--