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Bipolar Disorder/Bipolar -depression Disorder
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Question
Joyce
My brother was diagnosed with Bipolar-depression Disorder. What is Bipolar-depression Disorder? Is it like Bipolar i or Bipolar ii? What is the different with the depression part is it like major depression. I have 2 others in my family have Bipolar ii and 1 have major depression. I was all way been told both are two different diagnosis.
Hi Jim:
What is probably meant is that your brother is Bipolar, with the depression being the predominant state at the moment. When a diagnosis is given, the doctor will often note what state the patient is experiencing most often so they can determine what medications are most likely to work.
Yes, Bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder are two separate disorders. You are correct about that. Your brother is diagnosed as Bipolar.
Joyce A. Anthony
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Answers by Expert:
Joyce A. Anthony
Expertise
I can answer questions dealing with bipolar disorder in a parent, yourself or your child. I can give suggestions and insight into what can be expected of many medications for bipolar disorder. My most extensive knowledge is in children with bipolar disorder. Here I can give advice on dealing with daily events, schools, medication and professionals.
Experience
I am the daughter of a bipolar/schizophrenic parent, am bipolar myself and am raising a bipolar child. I have a background in Psychology from Gannon University, have run several parenting classes for those parenting bipolar children and have had extensive experience with medications, the school system, homeschooling a special needs child, dealing with counselors, doctors and other professionals in the mental health field. I write for a bipolar website, with the focus on educating the child with bipolar disorder on his/her illness.
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