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Q: Would BP Treatment Help My Concentration
I am a 21 year-old female, currently in my junior year of college. I've recently
been wondering if some of the problems in my life could be described by bipolar
II disorder, or perhaps an anxienty disorder. Most of my
difficulties are academic, and stem from an marked in ability to concentrate. It
is hard for me to read, complete lengthy papers, and finish assignments on a
regular basis. With reading, for example, I will read a sentence, start thinking
about other things, continue to read, and then realize that I have no idea what
the reading material is about. Reading a short novel takes weeks.
I've noticed that my moods change every few monthes, and while not severe, also
have an effect on my behavior. Currently, I'm in what might be described as "hypomanic"--I
get 15-20 hours of sleep each week without decreased energy, I take on large
projects that I have trouble finishing, feel exceptionally confident in social
situations (I'm usually painfully shy), and engage in some potentionally risky
activities. Several monthes ago, however, I experienced what might be "anxious
depression" or social phobia. I avoided social situations, felt sad and
irratible (though never suicidal), and slept 10-12 hours a day. This lasted
around three monthes. I have never been diagnosed with a psychological disorder,
nor visited a psychiatrist. My concern is that the problem which prevents me
from accomplishing things, lack of concentration, tends to remain the same
regardless of my moods. So even if I meet some of the criteria for bipolar
disorder, I don't understand whether or not being treated for that would help me
function better. My biological mother was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, and
my sister is currently being treated for severe unipolar deression.
Dear Ms. Curious --
You've given a very nice summary of symptoms that strongly suggest bipolar II
but don't clinch it. I'll bet you're having trouble sleeping at times, and
that you have a tendency toward insomnia or decreased sleep in the more socially
confident phases especially. In any case, check out the website on bipolar
II that includes a fairly lengthy discussion of the details I think you're
looking for:
www.psycheducation.org
. Whether you decide "that's me" or not, it would be information
you should have given that family history.
Dr. Phelps
Published June, 2002 |