Bipolar Disorder Support Group

Bipolar disorder is not just a single disorder, but a category of mood disorders marked by periods of abnormally high energy and euphoria, often accompanied by bouts of clinical depression. This is the place to talk about your experience with bipolar disorder, learn from others' experiences, and find support.

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Just got back from a week at the hospital

doorknob
doorknob
So I was in the hospital. It was helpful I feel.

But the pdoc changed my diagnosis to Major depressive disorder.

I didn't like that for two reasons.

1 it might screw with my SSDI

2 the bi polar meds work for me. \

I just read that lamictal is an inappropriate drug for Major depressive disorder yet it works for me.

I will probably talk to another doctor about it but what are every one's thoughts on this.
Community Leaderacuriousfish
acuriousfish
I supposed my thoughts would be

- if you feel you have experienced hypomania/mania then ask how that was somehow discounted?

- lamotrigine has definately been used to treat depression (as has lithium) for people that don't do well with other antidepressants.

then I saw this
http://www.psychiatrictimes.com/major-depressive-disorder/lamotrigine-major-depressive-disorder-inappropriate

personally I take the view that if it works, you are an adult, and you and your doctor are clear on possible downsides (which lamotrigine seems to have less) I'd hope it remains available to you
worldofblah4
worldofblah4
My pdoc says to treat the symptoms not the disorder. If it works, it works. I would definitely talk to another pdoc, but I am glad the hospital worked for you.
Community LeaderSunCloudJD
SunCloudJD
I'm so glad it helped you sweetie and you're home now safe and sound..
I agree that most doc's treat symptoms now and if the Lamictal is working why would he take you off of it?...I'd have a discussion with him and let him know how you feel about it
Big hug for you...xo
darkenedheart
darkenedheart
Welcome back doorknob. I'd talk to another doctor if you arent happy about your diagnosis and meds.
deleted_user
deleted_user
My pdoc said major depressive disorder is actually bipolar and that major depressive disorder is an old term. Lamictal is a good drug for the depression side of bipolar.
GinaWonders
GinaWonders
I'm just so glad to see you!!!!

Are you taking your meds RIGHT? I know you've had issues taking them, differently and different amounts.....

((((BIG HUG)))) Glad your back, and hope and prayer you find a good med and some stability and comfort!!!!! You deserve it : )
doorknob
doorknob
thank you every one. Sorry it's taken so long to get back to every one.

My meds seem to be fine. I'm going to an outpatient program soon so hopefully I can ask questions there. I'll keep you posted.
zonker
zonker
You've gotten SSDI because you weren't capable of supporting yourself financially because of your illness. A change of your diagnosis doesn't mean you're not still disabled. Talk to someone familiar with disability law -- social worker, case manager. It's not something you need to be worried about.
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