Expert: Ivan Goldberg, M.D. - 2/22/2010

Question
QUESTION: I grew up in an extremely abusive environment. Could that possibly cause bipolar symptoms? At around age 7, I tried to kill myself and continued attempts up until age 15 or so. My parents did nothing about it. Although Im not suicidal anymore, it has been on my mind a lot for some reason.I been thinking and researching ways that it could be done. I know 100% that I would never act on it, becaus I dont want my loved ones to go through that pain.
I been having severe mood swings and impulsive behaviors thats gotten me into a world of hurt, including being fired from my job.Im fighting to try toget it back. I go from depressed to bouncing off the walls to being mean and throwing stuff to over spending to racing thoughts just every thing.  The moods can als change very rapidly. I know I'm getting worse as everyone Iknow and love has said that my moods, attitude, and behaviors has dramatically decreased over the last 3 yrs. I was diagnosed with major depression and generalized anxiety at age 16 and that was only because of a court order.

Is it possible that they got the diagnosis wrong and could the abuse I endured for many years cause this? If I deal with all the residual effects of the abuse would all the head issues go away?Im really scared to see a dr because I'm afraid that I would be old that I am crazy and bipolar. Though I do have many symptoms of it...any suggestions?

ANSWER: Hi Lorrie . . .

Both biological and psychosocial factors contribute to the mood and behavioral instability often diagnosed as bipolar disorder. The vast majority of people who have this diagnosis are not crazy and never will become psychotic. They do not hear voices or believe that there are little green men in space ships following them around. Rather they are miserable because their lives are in shambles as a result of their impulsive behavior regarding interpersonal relations, sexuality, eating, working, driving, and almost every other aspect of life.

Because one or both of their parents carried the genes for bipolar disorder people with this disorder often experienced significant amounts of abuse (of all types) as children.

While you are scared to see a doctor, I hope you find the courage to do so. With proper treatment, both medical and psychological, people with bipolar disorder can gain control over their feelings, thinking and behavior and be better able to help themselves and the people they love. A list of especially qualified doctors with much experience in helping people with bipolar disorder and other mood disorders may be found at:
http://www.psycom.net/depression.central.psychiatrists.html

Best regards . . .

Ivan
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---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Is it possible to treat bi polar with out medications, also is there any suggestions as Im now unemployed and have no insurance? I know I need to do something... I just want this to go all away. If I did find a psychiatrist to go to, a friend said they would go with me to make it easier. Would the psychiatrist also talk to them asa they really know me and my mood issues or...

Would I stil be able to join the military as a previous earlier time they told me no as I was too unstable to join. :(

Answer
It is unlikely that drug-free treatment of someone with bipolar disorder will be successful.

When I see a new patient I request them to bring a friend or relative so i can interview them in the presence of the patient and get the "outside story" in addition to the "inside story" as provided by the patient.

People with a treated mood disorder are much more likely to be accepted into the military that those with an untreated mood disorder.

Best regards . . .

Ivan
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