I am currently being treated at an IOP (Intensive Out-Patient Program) and when I met the provider for our first session she made it seem that an anxiety disorder is a separate disorder from bipolar. And should be treated apart from the bipolar diagnosis. I always thought my high anxiety was another symptom of my bipolar disorder. Hopefully, this new perspective on my mental health will help in achieving some significant stability for myself.
I have been in a mood episode for the past nine months. A few days of stability here and there. Some hypomania and a whole lot of depression. My anxiety is often very intense. I can feel the tension in my shoulders and face, my hands are usually clenched in fists and I am constantly fidgeting with hand or leg movements. When certain things happen to me or in my thoughts and worrying, I feel like a jolt of electricity is flashing through my body. And I often get headaches that turn into migraines. And I can identify with the symptoms of anxiety disorder. I am hopeful that this new doctor will look at my mental health in a new way and maybe prescribe medication that combats anxiety. And I will continue to use meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and affirmations to try and stay calm.
Anxiety Disorder Symptoms:
Feeling nervous, restless, or tense
Having a sense of impending danger, panic, or doom
Having an increased heart rate
Breathing rapidly (hyperventilation)
Sweating
Trembling
Feeling weak or tired
Trouble concentrating or thinking about anything other than the present worry
Having trouble sleeping
Experiencing gastrointestinal (GI) problems
Having difficulty controlling worry
Having the urge to avoid things that trigger anxiety
Take good care,
Christine
"I am the sole author of the dictionary that defines me. -- Zadie Smith