Hi…I am brand new to this forum. In need of help, directions, advice, testimony.

I am a female, 40yrs old. Was diagnosed with Adult ADD about 6 yrs ago. I’ve been taking Dextroamphetamine ever since and have benefited tremendously. Up until about a yr ago, I‘ve also been on Prozac, in increasing dosages, but switched to Lexapro during the last year, at 20mg. I also take 15 mg of Buspirone daily. I have personally undergone severe trauma as a result of a divorce 3 years ago and subsequent dealing with EX in the legal system, as he is highly abusive. I am about to file for custody as a result. My mother was diagnosed as potentially Borderline Personality and Histrionic, but she never did anything about it and was never in any sort of treatment.

I have an appmnt upcoming in March with a new Psychiatrist, to totally revaluate all the meds I’ve been taking and my condition. So far my Internist has been writing prescriptions for past few years, but I obviously need a more qualified specialist to look at everything. I have been in counseling, and it was just suggested I should discuss my potential of being Bi-Polar with this Psychiastrist I have to say the first time I hear the word “Bi Polar’, I was scared to death. My sense is not so much on the Manic side at all. My dark gray depressed state has never been lower, and for the first time ever I have considered ending my life very seriously. I know I CANNOT b/c I don’t want to abandon my two young kids. I can’t.

I was blown away as I just picked up a copy of Patty Dukes book on her experience with Bi Polar and the book literally described ME. Except – I am not near as Manic. I KNOW I have this disease.

I would appreciate any insight into combo ADD/Bi Polar. Any insight to taking meds together to treat. I am REALLY concerned about potential weight gain and want to avoid, b/c I’ve struggled with this since my divorce. Also – and feedback on Wellbutrin…would be great. My suffering of PMS from an emotional standpoint I’d say is pretty severe, and obviously my depression is at it’s scariest, now, right during PMS.

Help, pls. I live in MD.

Thank you. God Bless.

Welcome to the ADD Forums, Newlife.

As I stated in your other Introductory Post http://www.addforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=5520&highlight=Newlife (not really necessary to post twice...we'll see it...I Promise :D) It certainly sounds like you're on the right path (getting evaluated, seeking help) and I'm glad you're here to ask questions.

As members come online, they will see the new messages posted and in short order, I have no doubt you'll have a slew of helpful replies!

You're amongst friends here...:)

thank you so much!

Hi there. I was so upset when they added bipolar to my repetoire of diagnosises, and ticked off. I did NOT want to be bipolar. But guess what? i am anyway, whether I want to be or not. The more I come to terms with it the more i find out thats so special about bipolar people. Im glad you checking into this and coming to see us here.

________________________________________________

As I am very lazy when it comes to typing so I have created a welcome page and ADDed a link here to get you there

My Welcome Page (http://www.addforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=3345)

Garry

________________________________________________

I have 2 friends from my area and they are both using the mineral suplement from TrueHope.com

I know nothing about it uther than they have both been using it for 2 years and are completly off all other medication

They both worked with there doctor while evaluating it and the Doctors were totally amazed by the results

Marge used to go for shock treatments every 6 months and hasent been there since she started using it

This is all I know and if you would like johns phone number he will be happy to tell you about his experences

please let me know if you wish to have his number

www.truehope.com

HI New Life,
I don't think Im add but I was diagnosed bipolar in 1979. One piece of experience for you- keep seeing a psychiatrist for your meds. I made the mistake of getting my scripts from an internist and he didnt notice when the meds stopped being effective. I did a loit of needless suffering. It sounds like you are doing the right things. Tell your dr about your concern about weight gain- he can steer you onto some meds that won't make you gain weight.
It isn't easy being bipolar but it also isnt the end of the world/ Hang in there!

Hi NewLife,
I'm glad to see you here at the forums and I more than understand the fear and misunderstanding of the diagnosis that could be awaiting you. I was recently diagnosed in November with Bipolar II rapid cycling among a host of other mental ailments and many know that I did not embrace it with open arms. My initial question was also how could I be Bipolar when I wasn't manic but suicidal. The first thing that you will learn is that cycles don't happen in just short bursts...it can also be a downward cycle with periodic up swings which can last for months if not years. In turn, a manic phase can last just as long. A qualified psychiatrist and ongoing therapy is not only needed but you will discover that they are the greatest thing in your new life. It's a long and tedious process but don’t ever give up and understand that you are not alone.

To address your concerns regarding weight gain, there are meds that can be prescribed to avoid that lovely feature. But in all seriousness, I gained roughly 40 pounds in a month in a half while on Lithobid and Zyprexa (Zyprexa is known to cause weight gain). I wasn't a happy camper but truth be told I realize now, as I work to lose the weight, that it was necessary as I transferred from antidepressants to stabilizers. The medication served its primary purpose, to cause me less emotional and physical turmoil and I believe 40 pounds was worth the alternative.

My prayers and best wishes to you as you continue down the right path.

WB Andi, Ive missed you terribly