FAQ’s

Lithium and Chips?

yeah!  Lithium is used to treat my bipolar. Lithium is as much a part of my daily diet as anything else I swallow. The chips part reflects my unhealthy diet (which im trying to get to grips with . . honest)

 

I’m depressed at the moment. I’ve got bipolar too right?

wrong! everybody feels down from time to time, usually when things are not going too well, bad weather, time of the month, time of year and so on. its human nature to have mood changes. If you feel your mood changes come and go and that you feel out of control then go see your GP who may refer you the the community health team or an initial assessment. Additionally if you feel suicidal right now then make an emergency appointment with your GP or call NHS direct.

 

How long does bipolar take to diagnose? 

Bipolar is extremely  difficult to diagnose, the process is long and hard. Lots of assessments, questions, meetings and consultations will take place. most diagnosis takes between 2-4 years, sometimes you may not ever reach a full diagnosis.

 

My friend or family has bipolar, how can I help?

firstly I would say that you have to be patient with them. bipolar can be just as hard to live for a friend or relative than the actual sufferer. Watching people close to you go on a downward spiral or become moody and aggressive for no apparent reason is very hard. so is watching them make a total arse of themselves.

Just stick by them and try to take it on the chin when things go difficult. DONT take things personally.

Try to read as many books on the subject as you can, Read this blog even. it will help you understand.

 

What is the worst thing somebody can say to bipolar sufferer?

Everybody is different so that’s a hard question to answer. I can only give you examples that affect me.

one thing I really hate people saying to me is “hows your bipolar today?”  . . arghhhhh yes I still have it and always will

other things that but me are people saying  ”try and think positive”  ”try cheer up”   this is the problem, when your having an episode of depression you CANT!

“I know how you feel” unless you have bipolar too I bet you don’t!

Again, if you have somebody in your life who is bipolar . . READ READ READ and try to understand the condition. its really important for when things are not too great.

 

Have you every tried to kill yourself?

yes four times. one time almost succeeded. Its a very dark place to be for everybody involved

 

More to follow