Expert: Layla Yeganeh - 7/10/2007

Question
I have been diagnosis as being Bipolar. I'm taking 200 lamitcal and 300 wellbrutin. I noticed and others have noticed that my attitude has changed. Going out of my way to take my friend places when I didn't want to. My friend does not drive so she expects me to stop doing what I'm doing and take her places even when she knows that I'm not feeling well. When I don't do what she wants me to do she brings up things that I have done in the past that where not pleasing to others. Before being treated for bipolar I use to let others take advantage of me and doing things that are not in my well being. I'm now doing what I want to do and when I want to do. My best friend tell me I'm being cruel because I'm no longer letting her take advantage of me. Is this what lamitcal and wellburtin are used for to help be see the things that where bad for me?

Answer
Hi Nia,

I don't think you are being cruel, do you?
You feel better, more confident, thats great.
What if I said to you that you are a wonderful, passionate, creative, giving person. Would you agree with that?
The point is people can say or think anything about you, its up to YOU, to decide how you feel.

You have to ask yourself, why do YOU question yourself inside, do you think you are somehow, secretly "bad"?

Let me tell you, start believing that you are beautiful, because all of us are bad and good and crazy and on and on ...., its all part of the fun of life. I believe its okay to be who we ARE. It is ok to be yourself!!!

I guess in the end it matters what you tell yourself is going on, if you believe that you are cruel, than that is what will become true for you. If you believe that you are taking care of yourself, and that is fine, then, that is what will be true. Its a state of mind really.

If I were you I would be proud of myself and focus on the positive things you have accomplished. Ever consider how wonderful you are, and how far you have come? That you are taking care of yourself!?

While drugs can help and change our moods, its more a state of mind, and a belief you have in yourself.

So don't let other people's attitudes and remarks question your integrity as a person. Not for a minuite.

I wouldn't.