Hello all. I have rapid cycling bipolar disorder. I take tons of meds, dont want to get into that here

Hello all. I have rapid cycling bipolar disorder. I take tons of meds, dont want to get into that here:?
I have been in treatment since 13, repeated hospitalizations and meds for 14 yrs (steady since 2003). I still struggle with things, not as bad as it used to be though because I dont party anymore...I have a gf of 5 yrs, thats great, good friends, play sports and music, just finished an MA in economics, I have lots to be happy about! I guess that is the problem with the disorder, I read how so many patients flat out do not respond to treatment. I notice a strong seasonal aspect to the disorder, I really decline in the winter, probably due to lack of sunlight/Vitamin D... What a long intro, but kind of necessary: Question: For other bipolars, how many of you have a small/no response to treatment, and have you found any alternatives, other that diet exercise all that? I do that, play hockey, jog, love to exercise, its just depressions stops me sometimes. How can you be consistent with health when depression knocks you down all the time? I dont mind productive mania, but anger...NO!
Mental Health - 3 Answers

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1
Have you ever considered that your bipolar disorder may be a product of another disorder. Many children who suffer from ADHD as a kid continue into adulthood with Adult ADD. Obviously I don't have enough information and am not trying to make a diagnosis...and...maybe you and your doctor have already considered the alternatives. Here is an article from WebMD about the two disorders and how they are commonly mistaken in diagnosis. http://www.webmd.com/content/Article/99/105151.htm I hope you find a combination of medication and treatment to "get rid of the cloud hanging over your head" as I call it.


2
Bipolar disorder is a severely disabling medical condition. In fact, it is a leading cause of disability in the world, according to the World Health Organization. However, with appropriate treatment, many individuals with bipolar disorder can live full and satisfying lives. Persons with bipolar disorder are likely to have periods of normal or near normal functioning between episodes. Ultimately one's prognosis depends on many factors, which are, in fact, under the individual's control: the right medicines; the right dose of each; a very informed patient; a good working relationship with a competent medical doctor; a competent, supportive, and warm therapist; a supportive family or significant other; and a balanced lifestyle including a regulated stress level, regular exercise and regular sleep and wake times. There are obviously other factors that lead to a good prognosis, as well, such as being very aware of small changes in one's energy, mood, sleep and eating behaviors, as well as having a plan in conjunction with one's doctor for how to manage subtle changes that might indicate the beginning of a mood swing. Some people find that keeping a log of their moods can assist them in predicting changes. The goals of long-term optimal treatment are to help the individual achieve the highest level of functioning while avoiding relapse. Basically, its will power which is the essential to overcoming this disorder. I believe the life you are living, the state you are in now, is the best form of treatment. I think your life is much better than others who i've seen in your position and you should be proud of your accomplishment, don't deprive yourself of congrats which you obviously deserve. All the best in the future, my prayers are with you.


3
I think you need a routine and stick to it. Make a daily exercise plan for Monday to Saturday that is realistic. Nothing that will get you too fatigued or stressed out. And then just stick to it whether you are depressed or not. You will find going for walks, jogging, etc. and just getting out into the fresh air lifts your mood. You sound like you are doing very well, keep it up!