Anonymous asked this question on 4/16/2000:

Mary Frances, I have been feeling very down for a long time, but it came to a head a few months ago. Usually I am mad at the world and not happy with things the way they are. Sometimes I am unstoppable, working harder and longer than anyone else and with all sorts of new ideas. Other times I am sluggish and just plain worn out morning or night.

It got to the point where I was weepy and severely unhappy, with suicidal ideation, for a few weeks. I talked to my doctor and she prescribed Paxil. It took about 12 weeks, but it seems to have leveled out the highs and lows to where I don't blow my top all of the time. I still get some times when I go and go and go and can't stop dreaming up new stuff.

My Doctor did not make a diagnoses as such. From my research, I think that I have bi-polar depression and from what I know about my history, may have had it for many years.

Is there such a thing as a mild/milder case where treating the depression keeps the lows at bay which makes the highs not seem manic, and that Paxil is all that is required? Or, should a person think about counseling also?

To be honest I still have the ideation at times, but not seriously to the point of scaring me. I own guns and have not pointed any at myself or even planned it that far -- but have no fear of death and would use them if I was told I had a terminal disease -- to save the long term suffering.

I am curious as to how long to continue the Paxil on the one hand and if going to a counselor would help on the other.

Any suggestions? Does this sound like bi-polar to you, and, if so, is it a long term condition -- or will a few months with Paxil to control the stress during a tough time in life take care of it?

Frances1234 gave this response on 4/17/2000:

Hi, Since this is a 'tough time in life', maybe counseling and meds. might be more helpful than just med. alone. why not use all the helpfulness you can get for yourself? One of the weakness in western medicine in my opinion is to rely too heavily on meds. and hope for fast relief. if you have access to professional counseling, take advantage of it.You, your doctor, and your therapist should make a decision about when to discontinue the med. and how to discontinue when the time comes. You sound intellectually inclined and that can be most helpful in resoning matters through, especially with the help of a trained therapist. ask about nutrition and exercise as components of your wellness plan. hope this helps..time to put my hayfevered head to bed..stay in touch. F

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