Julie A. Fast's Blog, page 70

Grief, Bipolar Depression and Lamictal

I just received this comment from Eileen:

Julie,

It seems that I am having a very rough time managing my bipolar type 2 when my life is turned upside down and had to take a temporary leave of absence from work to take care of my Mom and spend time with her in her final stages of terminal cancer.

I am not functioning well at all.

Suggestions ? I am going to re read some of your books that I have but am not going to do everything at once. Fortunately my Mom has 24 hour paid caregivers around the clock and is receiving Hospice care.. Yet, my emotions are all over the wall and I am on a low dose of Lamotrigine at 25 mg and wondered if I should up the dose .

Thanks

Hi Eileen,

First off, 25 mg. of Lamictal is a very, very low dose. That is basically what people start at in order to slowly go up and avoid side effects. I am not a doctor- but I talk to my co author a lot. My mother, brother, friend and myself are on Lamictal. Our doses are 125mg, 400 mg, 500 mg, and I take 700 mg.

200 mg is the basic therapeutic dose. If you go to the category list on the right, I have many posts on Lamictal and other medications.

I doubt very much that 25mg is having much effect.

You have to keep going until the Lamictal works. That is well known in the health care profession.

I think that this is the best place to start.

I am very sorry to hear about your mother. It would affect anyone’s bipolar.

Start with meds and go from there. My book that would help the most is the Health Cards- but more importantly, I think a grief counselor is the best next step.

Julie

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Published on July 22, 2012 10:28

Is it Mania or am I Just Amazing?

Here is a comment from Marcello- a reader from Texas. He told me what it feels like to have a manic episode.

“I can hear myself talking and talking these days. I have trouble letting people finish their sentences and always feel the need to get my words in. It’s embarrassing as it’s hard to monitor myself when I’m actually in a conversation. I know it’s happening! But it feels so good to talk- especially after a depression that made me so desperately unhappy. My friends are used to my talking- I just apologize and try to be a good listener when I’ve got too much manic energy. Then I have to face reality and talk to my nurse practitioner. I use your books Julie, but the mania still shows up. I wish that I could keep it away forever. As always, it feels better to be up than down- but being up has its own major problems: sleep issues, not eating (this is great for me, but a problem for others), the desire to drink, no desire to work and grandiose thoughts.

A few days ago, after a few days of depression, I woke up feeling ‘better.’ I thought what I always think- oh thank heavens the depression is gone. Then later that afternoon I had the thought, “America is such an amazing place. It’s so beautiful!” and then when I was at a movie theater, “I’m the most famous person in this room!” It’s very hilarious in some ways.

Not a good sign at all. It took me awhile to realize and admit that i was hypomanic (mild mania) and it made me sad to think I was rapid cycling again.

Rotten illness. I hate doing it, but I have to be honest with my friends and family and let them know I’m manic so they can help reign it in. I started my mania Health Card where I write down my mania symptoms so that I can go back and compare them to what I am feeling now. What I wrote is verbatim to what I am saying now. I guess the mania is real.

I then have to prepare for the inevitable depression and use my Get it Done techniques to deal with it.

You taught me that Mania is not GOOD and depression is not BAD. The are two sides to the bipolar coin.”

Thanks Marcello!

Julie

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Published on July 20, 2012 16:52

Is it Mania or am I just amazing?

Here is a comment from Marcello- a reader from Texas.

I can hear myself talking and talking these days. I have trouble letting people finish their sentences and always feel the need to get my words in. It’s embarrassing as it’s hard to monitor myself when I’m actually in a conversation. I know it’s happening! But it feels so good to talk- especially after a depression that made me so desperately unhappy. My friends are used to my talking- I just apologize and try to be a good listener when I’ve got too much manic energy. Then I have to face reality and talk to my nurse practitioner. I use your books Julie, but the mania still shows up. I wish that I could keep it away forever. As always, it feels better to be up than down- but being up has its own major problems: sleep issues, not eating (this is great for me, but a problem for others), the desire to drink, no desire to work and grandiose thoughts.

A few days ago, after a few days of depression, I woke up feeling ‘better.’ I thought what I always think- oh thank heavens the depression is gone. Then later that afternoon I had the thought, “America is such an amazing place. It’s so beautiful!” and then when I was at a movie theater, “I’m the most famous person in this room!” It’s very hilarious in some ways.

Not a good sign at all. It took me awhile to realize and admit that i was hypomanic (mild mania) and it made me sad to think I was rapid cycling again.

Rotten illness. I hate doing it, but I have to be honest with my friends and family and let them know I’m manic so they can help reign it in. I started my mania Health CArd where I write down my mania symptoms so that I can go back and compare them to what I am feeling now. What I wrote is verbatim to what I am saying now. I guess the mania is real.

I then have to prepare for the inevitable depression and use my Get it Done techniques to deal with it.

You taught me that Mania is not GOOD and depression is not BAD. The are two sides to the bipolar coin.

Julie

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Published on July 20, 2012 16:52

Reaching a dream

I gave a talk for a very large crowd this weekend. It was such a great experience- and I am very aware that a few years ago it was an experience that would have been too stressful for me to even contemplate. But after years of work, I am now well enough to reach a dream- to help people who are in crisis by talking to them in a live setting.

I did all that I needed to do to stay well. My trusted business partner Sheri went with me- she helped with all of the set up. My hosts did all of the preparation for the talk. I made sure I got enough sleep the night before- and I had a plan ready for how I would feel after the talk.

In the past, the paranoia would have started as soon as I got off the stage. Yes, that soon! I take care of a lot of this by telling the audience that I will get paranoid- this gives them an idea of what a person with bipolar goes through as well as giving me a reminder that paranoia is normal for me- I don’t have to believe it.

It also makes everyone laugh.

Once the speech was done- I followed my own rules and said to myself, “Great job Julie. I am so proud of you. You did a great job.” and that was that. No second guessing and no self flagellating. This is a huge change for me. I’ve worked hard on it.

I went to a new location and gave a big presentation without having mood swings. all right!

Julie

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Published on July 19, 2012 14:59

Very Good Job! Good for You Julie!

Before I created The Health Cards- I used to be terrifically hard on myself. I don’t think I praised myself for years- except when I was manic of course and then the praise was a bit grandiose.

I now praise myself each time I accomplish something. Always. It’s automatic now- even when I’m depressed. When I finish something, I have the thought- Good for you Julie!

Do you do this? It took me a while to master the technique, but I’m glad I did. It’s a lot better than what my mind used to say.

Julie

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Published on July 18, 2012 16:14

Guest Blog From Lauren R. Tharp

A Simple Blood Test That Could Save You Thousands of Dollars in Psychiatric Bills

By: Lauren R. Tharp – http://littlezotz.com

I do not have Bi-Polar Disorder.

But, for a while, doctors thought I did.

……………Let me explain…

In my teen years, I was acting, well, a little “mental” as my dad would say. So, of course, I was taken to the best “mental” doctors. Various psychiatrists and psychologists hmm’d at my situation, nodding their heads, and stroking their chins: “Bi-Polar Disorder!” “Depression!” “Borderline!”

They had all sorts of ideas about my situation.

But why did all of my symptoms virtually disappear sometimes, usually right after a good meal? And why weren’t any of these doctors addressing my physical symptoms—like my cold hands and feet, chronic headaches, or sensitivity to light?

Long story short, my parents took me to a general practitioner. He investigated my physical symptoms, performed a glucose tolerance test, and I finally had my answer: Hypoglycemia.

Once I was put on a proper diet, nearly all of my symptoms disappeared! No drugs needed!

All of those years in psychiatric offices could have been prevented with a simple blood test.

The sad thing is; my case is not unique. Roberta Ruggiero, founder of the Hypoglycemia Support Foundation, has a similar story. She went for over a decade thinking her problem was all in her head—and was even administered electroshock therapy!—before she was finally given a blood sugar test.

Do I blame the doctors? Begrudgingly, my answer is “no.”

Bi-Polar Disorder and Hypoglycemia are shockingly similar!

Do these symptoms sound familiar?

Difficulty Concentrating
Emotional Fragility or Sensitivity (Big emotional reactions to “little” things)
Mental Confusion
Brain Chatter
Indecisiveness
Irritability
Exhaustion
Forgetfulness
Chatterbox (Talking more than normal—usually with a lack of “filters.”)
Difficulty Sleeping
Nightmares or Night Terrors
Antisocial Behavior or Noticeable Withdrawal from Activities
Temper Tantrums
Suicidal Thoughts or Tendencies

That was a list of the side-effects of Hypoglycemia. They’re almost indistinguishable from Bi-Polar Disorder, aren’t they?

However, if you’re also experiencing any of these symptoms…

Bad Breath

Muscle Pain (Usually backaches)
Chronic Indigestion
Internal Trembling
Chronically Cold Hands and Feet
Dizziness
Fainting or Blackouts
Chronic Headaches
Light and Noise Sensitivity
Blurry Vision
Numbness
Excessive Sweating
PMS
Heart Palpitations

…I would urge you to take a blood sugar test!

Even if you’re sure you have Bi-Polar Disorder, it wouldn’t hurt to get tested. Even the best prescription drugs won’t help you to feel better if you’re a Hypoglycemic and you’re not eating right for your condition.

On that note, I’d like to mention that Depression does go hand-in-hand with Hypoglycemia. Nearly all Hypoglycemics experience Depression—whether as an actual mental condition or simply as a gnarly “side-effect.”

It’s during these times that I like to keep a copy of Julie Fast’s Get It Done When You’re Depressed by my side. It’s helped me to continue working, even when I really, really didn’t feel like it. Whether you’re Bi-Polar, Hypoglycemic, or something in-between… Get that book!

We’d love to hear what you think, please share your comments below.

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Published on July 18, 2012 15:51

Guest Blog From Lauren R. Tharpe

A Simple Blood Test That Could Save You Thousands of Dollars in Psychiatric Bills

By: Lauren R. Tharp – http://littlezotz.com

I do not have Bi-Polar Disorder.

But, for a while, doctors thought I did.

……………Let me explain…

In my teen years, I was acting, well, a little “mental” as my dad would say. So, of course, I was taken to the best “mental” doctors. Various psychiatrists and psychologists hmm’d at my situation, nodding their heads, and stroking their chins: “Bi-Polar Disorder!” “Depression!” “Borderline!”

They had all sorts of ideas about my situation.

But why did all of my symptoms virtually disappear sometimes, usually right after a good meal? And why weren’t any of these doctors addressing my physical symptoms—like my cold hands and feet, chronic headaches, or sensitivity to light?

Long story short, my parents took me to a general practitioner. He investigated my physical symptoms, performed a glucose tolerance test, and I finally had my answer: Hypoglycemia.

Once I was put on a proper diet, nearly all of my symptoms disappeared! No drugs needed!

All of those years in psychiatric offices could have been prevented with a simple blood test.

The sad thing is; my case is not unique. Roberta Ruggiero, founder of the Hypoglycemia Support Foundation, has a similar story. She went for over a decade thinking her problem was all in her head—and was even administered electroshock therapy!—before she was finally given a blood sugar test.

Do I blame the doctors? Begrudgingly, my answer is “no.”

Bi-Polar Disorder and Hypoglycemia are shockingly similar!

Do these symptoms sound familiar?

Difficulty Concentrating
Emotional Fragility or Sensitivity (Big emotional reactions to “little” things)
Mental Confusion
Brain Chatter
Indecisiveness
Irritability
Exhaustion
Forgetfulness
Chatterbox (Talking more than normal—usually with a lack of “filters.”)
Difficulty Sleeping
Nightmares or Night Terrors
Antisocial Behavior or Noticeable Withdrawal from Activities
Temper Tantrums
Suicidal Thoughts or Tendencies

That was a list of the side-effects of Hypoglycemia. They’re almost indistinguishable from Bi-Polar Disorder, aren’t they?

However, if you’re also experiencing any of these symptoms…

Bad Breath

Muscle Pain (Usually backaches)
Chronic Indigestion
Internal Trembling
Chronically Cold Hands and Feet
Dizziness
Fainting or Blackouts
Chronic Headaches
Light and Noise Sensitivity
Blurry Vision
Numbness
Excessive Sweating
PMS
Heart Palpitations

…I would urge you to take a blood sugar test!

Even if you’re sure you have Bi-Polar Disorder, it wouldn’t hurt to get tested. Even the best prescription drugs won’t help you to feel better if you’re a Hypoglycemic and you’re not eating right for your condition.

On that note, I’d like to mention that Depression does go hand-in-hand with Hypoglycemia. Nearly all Hypoglycemics experience Depression—whether as an actual mental condition or simply as a gnarly “side-effect.”

It’s during these times that I like to keep a copy of Julie Fast’s Get It Done When You’re Depressed by my side. It’s helped me to continue working, even when I really, really didn’t feel like it. Whether you’re Bi-Polar, Hypoglycemic, or something in-between… Get that book!

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Published on July 18, 2012 15:51

Bipolar Disorder Mania and Normal Excitement

What is the difference between bipolar disorder mania and normal excitement?

Mania makes everything look beautiful and interesting.

Excitement is the result of something beautiful and interesting.

Mania is a brain mistake. Excitement is real.

Julie

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Published on July 17, 2012 21:44

GlaxoSmithKline prescription assistance program for Lamictal (Lamotrigine)

Hi Everyone,

Thanks for the great comments you leave on the blog. Here is some information on Glaxo’s prescription program. They make Lamictal- it’s now available in generic, but if you qualify, this may be cheaper. For those of you new to Lamictal- it’s an anti convulsant used to treat bipolar depression. It has helped so many people, but it’s expensive.

**

Most major drug companies have programs to help low income people with bipolar disorder get prescription help. Here is a link for GlaxoSmithKline, the makers of Lamictal.

http://www.gskforyou.com/

I have to ask this- where is the help for the middle class!!!

Julie

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Published on July 16, 2012 15:58

Accepting New Partner and Family Coaching Clients

Writing books on bipolar disorder has been my career for over ten years. I enjoy writing and plan to do a lot more. (It can be a challenge when the mood swings are paying a visit, that’s for sure.)

Over two years ago, I started coaching partners and family members of people with bipolar disorder as an addition to my writing career.

I never, ever thought I would find work that I enjoy as much as I enjoy coaching. I feel at home with the parents and partners as I have been where they are- and I remain calm during the crises that many of my clients are going through while we are working together. Bipolar disorder is like a puzzle. It’s not always easy to find the right pieces on your own. It helps to have a coach as a guide.

My coaching practice has room for new clients. I take new clients about once a month-and then help them as best I can. It’s a partnership that saves relationships and often lives.

Coaching is not for everyone, but if you are concerned about your relationship with a person with bipolar disorder, it may be a good fit for you. The following link will tell you more. I look forward to talking.

Julie Fast Family and Partner Coaching

Julie

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Published on July 15, 2012 13:39