Having navigated mental health challenges my entire life, I have learned that finding the right diagnosis and treatment is often a difficult, trial-and-error process. Some psychiatrists may lack the necessary expertise, so I cannot stress this enough: always get a second or even a third opinion regarding your diagnosis. Because everyone’s body chemistry is unique, doctors are often uncertain if a specific medication will work, which can make you feel like a human guinea pig. Typically, you must trial a medication for six months to a year to determine its true effectiveness.
Over the years, I received several different diagnoses. Eventually, I found a psychiatrist who diagnosed me with Bipolar Disorder with manic tendencies and prescribed a regimen that finally provided stability. However, after 25 years on that medication, I sought an assessment from a new, highly reputable psychiatrist. Her conclusion was that I was never actually Bipolar, but rather suffered from severe anxiety. Since my current medication has worked for over two decades, her advice was to remain on it, and she continues to treat me today.
If you are just beginning your journey with mental health treatment, be prepared for a bumpy ride. One of the most dangerous experiences I had was when a psychiatrist decided to "start fresh" by taking me off all my medications at once. It was a disastrous mistake; I entered a manic state so severe that I spent nearly two years in a state hospital, followed by another two years in a halfway house.
It is a rocky road, and the process of finding what works for you can take years of trial and error. I have finally found my "happy medium," and I wish you the best of luck on your own journey toward stability.
Over the years, I received several different diagnoses. Eventually, I found a psychiatrist who diagnosed me with Bipolar Disorder with manic tendencies and prescribed a regimen that finally provided stability. However, after 25 years on that medication, I sought an assessment from a new, highly reputable psychiatrist. Her conclusion was that I was never actually Bipolar, but rather suffered from severe anxiety. Since my current medication has worked for over two decades, her advice was to remain on it, and she continues to treat me today.
If you are just beginning your journey with mental health treatment, be prepared for a bumpy ride. One of the most dangerous experiences I had was when a psychiatrist decided to "start fresh" by taking me off all my medications at once. It was a disastrous mistake; I entered a manic state so severe that I spent nearly two years in a state hospital, followed by another two years in a halfway house.
It is a rocky road, and the process of finding what works for you can take years of trial and error. I have finally found my "happy medium," and I wish you the best of luck on your own journey toward stability.
