Mania

Hey y'all. I'm Starr and I'm from Missouri. I'm new here and just wanted to take a moment to introduce myself. I'm 38, married, and have 4 kids from ages 10-17. I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia a little over 5 years ago but have had symptoms since I was 16. I also struggle with sever anxiety disorder with an emphasis on social anxiety and manic depressive disorder. My husband is amazing and supports me in every way and I am trying to get approved for disability. I love to read and take pictures and try to enjoy flee markets and car shows on my good days when it's nice out. So yeah that's a bit about me 😬 #Fibromyalgia

Hi, my name is HappyTraveler. I was misdiagnosed in the early 80s with Dyslexia because I had trouble reading and writing. This misdiagnosis inspired me, rather than hurt me. Today I am an avid reader (still have atrocious hand writing and spelling) and have traveled the world as a bartender for 37 years. I have lived a very different life that has not necessarily been detrimental, but has always made me ask why? Now believe I have a manic personality. I am here wondering if anyone else was misdiagnosed in the 80s because mania might of made them a slow developer.

#MightyTogether

So. It’s been some time since I visited. I have been experiencing increased anxiety and stress prior to leaving for work. So much, that it makes me physically ill (because I have been ruminating all night about how my day will go). I realize how unhealthy this is and signed up for our local partial hospitalization program for two weeks. I am now in week 2 and will be discharged from program Friday. Even though I am in therapy every other week, I did not realize how debilitating it was getting for me to even function at work. The PHP has been a great reminder of CBT and coping skills. A few I feel confident to utilize when I am suffering a mental crisis. I’m thankful I participated in the program, for work related reasons. I work in healthcare, but don’t always take care of myself as I should. As we direct our patients.

I have also been speaking to my therapists regarding my bipolar II rapid cycling diagnosis. I believe when I was diagnosed, I met the criteria. Fast forward 20 years later, I’m not so sure I fit that criteria as my manic episodes are more “fleeing moments,” and very short lived because I am cognizant when I feel I am “starting to slip.” I am more creature of habit, routine and when either is thrown off balance, it is difficult for me to adjust. I have a couple OCD tendencies, as well. And, a different personality. It takes me a very long time to trust someone. I more observe than participate, at times. Start to disassociate when I am under an extreme amount of stress. Sigh. I don’t know what that labels me, but I don’t believe it is bipolar II.

Good to be here with likeminded people who might have insight. I welcome any and all! Thank you for reading. #MightyTogether #Depression #Anxiety #workrelatedstress #PTSD #Bipolar2