How to relate

[frostbitten]

Hi im new to this site and just wanted to introduce myself

Im 25 years old no kids and am engaged, though i dont have a wedding date set yet. Im not really sure where i should post in, seeing as how im not sure what diagnosis to believe. I have prolonged PTSD, and supposedly bipolar and borderline personality.

For the longest time i argued that was a contridiction of diagnostic criteria and not a possible combination of diagnosis. My doctor however says it is in fact possible to have both diagnosis and i guess i should believe him seeing as how he is a bit more schooled in these matters then i am. Either way im a bundle mental mess.

I been out of the mental health scene for at least 2 years now, no hospitalizations or medications or even therapy visits. It has been a very nice break but alas i can feel it coming to an end. I am starting to cycle again and show symptoms of borderline traits. I hope that i will be able to find comfort and support here, and also be able to offer as much.

Im in for a rough ride as when i cycle, i cycle dangerous and hard. Take care everyone and may God bless you in all that you do in his name.

Frostbitten

 

[ForAMomentIWillFly]

I don't know how much stock I'd put into a single doctor's opinion, Fb. I think you may want to get a second opinion and go from there, though I have heard that such disorders can co-exist.

 

[madison1101]

They can exist together, because I have both. One is biochemical, the other is behavioral. I also studied it in depth in graduate school, as I am a licensed social worker, and work in a psychiatric hospital with people who also have multiple diagnoses.

I have no idea where I would be without my medications or therapy. I have been in therapy since 1989 with the only breaks being when I was in outpatient treatment for my eating disorder. I have also been on medication most of that time as well. Bipolar disorder is biochemical, and usually requires a regular medication regimen.

While I was diagnosed BPD in 1990, my therapist was able to change my diagnosis from BPD a few years ago because I was able to eliminate most of the behaviors which are listed in the criterion for the diagnosis.

Good luck with your next step in therapy. If you know you are going to hit a rough patch in your illness, I suggest you seek help now to prevent it from happening.

 

[EbonNelumbo]

I have similar diagnoses to yours, K. I love you and hope you know I am always here for you.

I just got diagnosed as bipolar I and I have BPD and PTSD among EDNOS and anxiety disorders. Coexistance is possible and my therapist said it's VERY common to see the trifecta of BPD, BP and PTSD together. Love you K!!!!