A Lengthy Bipolar Mixed Episode

The journey through bipolar tends to include many highs and lows.

I am experiencing a ten-month-long mood episode. This mixed episode means that I fluctuate from hypomania to depression, cycling back and forth every couple of weeks, sometimes it all occurs in one day. Very recently I was in a crisis, depressed, and extremely low. Finally one morning I reached out to my sister, whom I am very close with, and asked her to come over and keep me company. Within the several hours between when I contacted her and when she arrived, I very abruptly went from a state of depression to hypomania. This sudden extreme change in mood is very exhausting and confusing. I went from copious tears and feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness to feeling high on life. Hypomania brings extraordinary energy and an "up" mood.

My doctor had me start taking a different mood stabilizer two days ago. It makes me sleepy. I just hope this current combination of medicine will make a difference and stop these cycles. What a comfort it would be if I could accumulate some time of stability.

Take good care,

Christine

The first step toward detachment is understanding that reacting and controlling don't help. The next step is getting peaceful - getting centered and restoring balance. -- Melody Beattie