new to the forums, and could use some advice

Hi Terryb and welcome!

I am glad you've found us, though sorry to hear of your struggles, confusion about your dx and your dissatisfaction with your Rx regimen. :/

With regards to your dx of bipolar...were you, 1) diagnosed by a psychiatrist? and 2) have you sought a second opinion/ been dx'd by more than one mental health specialist?

I think the answer to those questions will have a lot to do with finding the answers you need.

Medications can be challenging and frustrating...but also a necessary tool in feeling our best and having the quality of life we seek.

Consistency in your regimen, and using other tools such as therapy and the self help that you mentioned is key.

Check out our Resources at the top of the main forum page for more self help material that you may find helpful...

...and continue to post with us anytime. We care, understand and support is key!

Scaredy Cat

hi there Scaredy Cat,
Ya i was diagnosed by one psychiatrist and since then every new professional ive seen has taken the original diagnosis as law. im starting to try and see a psychologist instead because ive been told they focus more on the root cause rather then just trying to prescribe everything away. my support out here hasnt been the greatest. ive been to emergency for anxiety attacks and been told to go away because actual sick people need the care more. dont know if anyone else here has been treated the same.

hey hopeful86,
i found out about the alpha stim from a study i saw online that was quoting it as a miracle therapy for anxiety, depression, and insomnia. i dont have health insurance because of my pre-existing condition but i was told by the company i purchased it from that many health insurances do cover it if prescribed. i've only been using the machine a little over a month and ive found it very helpful. my anxiety attacks have become less frequent and ive overall had more energy every day ive used it. im still waiting to see what kind of effect it will have on my depression. according to the company depression takes longer to show the full effect of the treatment. ( they told me to wait at least 6 months of use) but as far as anxiety it works wonders, i dont need to take adivan anymore when im having an attack. now i just put the machine on for 40 minutes and i calm right down. the company also states that i should lessen my prescriptions eventually as the alpha stim actually makes them more effective over time.
I'm having a hard time getting my doctor on board with the alpha stim, i live in a very small community in saskatchewan, canada and this technology isnt recognized by the majority of doctors here. it's definitely worth looking into though if you want to get away from the pills. im slowly starting to recommend it to people i know who are having the same sort of troubles. i wasnt a believer the first day i used it but after about a week my familly even noticed the difference in me.

Hi

You have received good input above so I just wanted to pop in and say hi and welcome to the forum.

Keep us posted we are here to support you.

Hibee