Bipolar Disorder/Bipolor in me

Advertisement


Question
If you are bipolar would you personally know are do your doctor have to tell you?

Answer
Shawnta:

The simple answer is no, you would not necessarily know.  Let me explain.

There are several disorders that can mimic bipolar disorder, including medical problems like thyroid.  You would first need to make sure all those causes were eliminated.

Also, other people often can see mood changes we ourselves do not notice.

My advice would be to talk with a doctor about your concern and let the doctor take it from there.
                Joyce A. Anthony

Bipolar Disorder

All Answers


Answers by Expert:


Ask Experts

Volunteer


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.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.