Expert: Ivan Goldberg, M.D. - 11/12/2008

Question
hi there,
Im a 26 year old, and have been suffering with bad depressions mood swings for most of my life, but have only just started researching it. Im usually the life and soul of the party, always out, I drink alot - too much, laugh loud, talk loud, overly confident. But at periods I can sink very low to the point of not wanting to get out of bed, cant stop crying, and hating myself. Im extremly clingy in relationships and if a relationship ends in my life, I feel like i want to die, and will never get over it - completely over the top, but i can only see that after.
I feel very anxious sometimes, and always worry what people will think of me, its hard to hold my attention. And i try far too hard to please people. I need to feel loved, i need constant attention, and if Im single i feel very lonely. I also have an eating disorder, which Ive had for about 8 years, and I just get by with it. But looking back Ive had these problems even before the ED.
can you help me understand whats wrong with me? or is this normal behaviour??

Answer
Hi Jodie . . .

I am sorry for the delay in getting back to you but I have been involved in helping resolve a family emergency.

I am not allowed to make or suggest a diagnosis over the internet. I think you should download the questionnaire at:
http://www.psycom.net/depression.central.bipolar-screening.html
and take it with you to a psychiatrist for an evaluation.

Best regards . . .

Ivan
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