Ask Anything Monday!

[Peter_Pan78]

That's a good question. Bipolar can be a hard one to diagnose. If you are concerned definitely see a psychologist (most GP's I've found pretend to know things but are too proud to do the right thing and refer u to a specialist such as a psychologist) In the end though u know yourself better than anyone, so go with your gut feeling. Seeing a psychologist wouldn't hurt though. You don't have to agree with them if what they say doesn't feel right, it's just another point of view. Good luck 😊

[Shaz51]

Hello , welcome to the forum

That's a good question. Bipolar can be a hard one to diagnose

My Husband has MI but the doctors don`t know what he actually has -- this or that and they wrote down one thing and gave him medication for something else

[NikNik]

Happy Monday everyone!

A big thanks to @Shaz51 and @Peter_Pan78 for responding to the last question. This week's question is:

Hi there,

Somethings not right. I don't know, what. Is it worth me seeing the doctor if I don't want medication? I don't know what to do. 

[Sahara]

Hi

and yes, I think it is worth seeing your doctor if something is not right. Doctors are experienced in asking the right kind of questions to find out if there is indeed something that you should be concerned about or need some treatment for. 

They might give you a questionnaire to fill in right there and then in the surgery that could give them a basic understanding of where you are at. Or they might just ask you a series of questions about your mood and your life circumstances. They might also do a basic (non-invasive) physical examination to rule out physical problems.

Depending on the circumstances, they might also order some basic blood tests to check up on your general health.

A good doctor should make you feel comfortable and listened to. You have the right to refuse tests or physical examinations that you do not want, for whatever reason you choose. The doctor must respect your wishes. If you are nervous, you can take someone with you to your appointment for moral support.

Treatment for problems like mental health issues does not always involve medication. You do not have to take medication if you don't want to, even if your doctor gives you a script. You can always seek a second opinion. 

Other treatments that many people find effective are talking to a psychologist or counsellor, learning relaxation techniques, joining support groups, journal keeping, exercising and meditating. 

You might like to write down any questions you might have before you see your doctor so as you don't forget them. 

[PeppiPatty]

Dear @Sahara and @NikNik 

How are you,

@Sahara you bring up spot on anwers there. Couldnt have written it better myself.

My name is PeppiPatty and I want to bring up one further thing....@NikNik is smiling away as this is what I usually do ........

Can I first cover what you have written @Sahara can you write I have'nt done it right?

Doctor asks experienced questions.

Questionaire.

non invasive pysical examination

Basic blood tests.

You have the right to refuse tests.

You can take an advocate like a good friend or family.

you can always seek another opinion.

People who suffer times of mental ill health ......doesnt mean you need to take medication if it is perscribed. 

other Doctors/therapies may be recommended. 

Write down any questions so you dont forget them.

You also write that seeing a GP ......should make you comfortable and listened to.

Can I just write and remind the lady/male that getting a second opinion is good . We all have stories of not being heard, not being believed or not having support....

Kind Regards, PeppiPAtty 

[Shaz51]

Hello @NikNik, @PeppiPatty. @Sahara, I totally agree

Hi, My name is  @Shaz51, and as a carer and a wife,

Write down any questions so you dont forget them. and I have learnt to ask questions , at the beginning I didn`t but I am finding it is very important

[Peter_Pan78]

@NikNik I am in Europe on holiday with my wife and daughter at the moment. Having lots of fun but very tiring as we dash from one city to the next. Hope you are doing well

[PeppiPatty]

Hi @Peter_Pan78

Good news on a holiday. It's cool that you write in..........

[NikNik]

Happy Monday everyone!

Thank you to @PeppiPatty @Peter_Pan78 @Shaz51  @Sahara for contributing last week (Peter_Pan78 - I hope you're having a great trip)

This week's question is:

A few months ago I had a psychotic episode. I was under a lot of stress and I think this caused the episode. It's only the second one I've ever had in my life. I haven't been violent in either of my episodes. 

I was taken to hospital and stayed there for a few weeks.

While I was there my partner decided I had changed too much and wants to separate. We were having some issues beforehand, but it's like this has been the main issue. I can't help these episodes and I feel like they aren't me.. and it shouldn't cause the end of my relationship.

Has anyone got any tips on how to save my relationship or has this happened to anyone before?

[eth]

I'm not sure I can help much but wanted to say I know first-hand how scary psychotic episodes and the fall-out after them can be.  But the times I've had them I've been single (but with a child - that's another topic).  I would suggest asking your partner to come to some therapy or counselling sessions with you - if they can do that it might help them realise a lot and remember you are still you and the episodes are your illness.  It might help you a lot too.