Diagnosis Confirmed.

[berry2000]

Today my psychiatrist confirmed what I knew all along. Bipolar. But not Bipolar 1, maybe bipolar II, but definately something in the bipolar spectrum. He is going to "keep a close eye on me" and I feel we will sort it out. Funny but it's kind of a relief to me. I've known in my heart all along.

But, when I shared the news with my spouse. He pretty much freaked. Total denial, anger, frustration and fear came spewing out of him. Why can't he just embrace it...it's not the end of the world. Nothing has changed. I feel rejected in my very being and at the same time...still this overwelming relief of knowing it is something real...and something more than just clinical depression.

 

[Col303]

Hi Berry,

I am so glad that you receive confirmation to what you have known along. You're right it is a relief finally have the answers. I am so sorry about the way your husband reacted to the news. It may take him a while to sort things out in his own head.

My family had difficulty with my diagnosis, especially when I went into the hospital. It took them some time, a lot of patience on my part, and tons of conversations and education. There are still those moments when I can tell they just don't get it, but that's OK.

Just as it may take your husband some time it may take you some as well. I know for me, there was great relief but then the reality of it all hit me like a ton of bricks. Give yourself time and be patience with yourself as well.

Take the time to find out all you can about bipolar disorder. There are so many good books out there and some really good websites. Two that have helped me are: www.bipolardisorder.com and www.moodswing.com

Know that there is a great support system right here. Also please feel free to PM me any time. I will be praying for you and your husband. May the peace of God be with you!

colleen

 

[wonderwaleye]

Dear Berry2000


I don't mean to scare you and I'm sure you already know that clinical depression often kills and needs the support of those around you!!!



It's time hubby get a CRASH COURSE!!! He needs to also talk with your doctor.



You might want to show hubby some book references.



It is very hard for others to understand when they have never experienced such pain. BUT IT IS A MUST!!! They need to be on GO if you are in trouble.


IN ALL YOUR PAIN REMEMBER:




XEven though you can't see Him, GOD is there!O
( click on the X and drag to the O ) ( then feel who is around you ) steven

 

[Alive again]

Today my psychiatrist confirmed what I knew all along. Bipolar. But not Bipolar 1, maybe bipolar II, but definately something in the bipolar spectrum. He is going to "keep a close eye on me" and I feel we will sort it out. Funny but it's kind of a relief to me. I've known in my heart all along.

But, when I shared the news with my spouse. He pretty much freaked. Total denial, anger, frustration and fear came spewing out of him. Why can't he just embrace it...it's not the end of the world. Nothing has changed. I feel rejected in my very being and at the same time...still this overwelming relief of knowing it is something real...and something more than just clinical depression.

Everyone copes in diffferent ways. Grief, denial, bargaining, fear, or even acceptance. Allow your hubby some space to cope in his own way, but yes, he too must become informed so that he can help you. In my marrriage I have always been the one to cope the best with things. I often laugh that I am the "sick" one but I have far better coping styles than my dh. I will say s prayer for you an dyour hubby as althought this diagnosis truly doesn't change anything about who you are it does change everything in that now you have new meds and mew tools to help you and your hubby cope. Your hubby is welcome here with any questions he may have, but as others have said there are great websites, books and even support groups out there to help him.

 

[berry2000]

I will say s prayer for you an dyour hubby as althought this diagnosis truly doesn't change anything about who you are it does change everything in that now you have new meds and mew tools to help you and your hubby cope.

Thank you I think that is what I need. Funny thing is that I don't really have new meds or new tools. I was already on a mood stablizer and doc didn't switch anything up and I've been in therapy for 2 years now. So it really is a small thing to get this new labe confirmed and that is why I don't lunderstand husbands strong reaction.

 

[berry2000]

Does anyone else have any advice for helping family get out of denial?