Could I have bipolar disorder?

Question

I'm 34 years old, and I've had some form of depression for practically my entire life. I have been treated for dysthymia and severe depression, and I am currently taking Prozac, which is working pretty well, so far. However, I've sometimes wondered if I could have a form of bipolar disorder. One reason for this is because when I was 17 years old, I went on a class trip to a foreign country, and I really wasn't my typical self. I was loud, obnoxious, much more outgoing than normal, at times euphoric, and I remember being hyperactive to the point in which I was in a hotel room by myself, jumping all over the bed, and acting like a madwoman. I still shudder when I think of the way I acted! Could my behavior have been symptomatic of bipolar disorder? If so, then why haven't I had any more episodes like that since then? If anything, I'm normally depressed, and when I'm not taking meds, I'm often pretty consumed with rage and sadness and anything but euphoric!

Answer 1

I think if you were really excited about the process of taking part in intellectual and cultural adventure.  It overtook you and you went outside your norm.  There is absolutely nothing wrong with that.  You should have seen me at the Napoleon exhibit when it came to Memphis.  I was still my big nerd self in that I was fascinated by it the chance to experience the history(especially among people who were just there to get out of school).  However, my pace quicked and my mind raced with everything I was taken in.  I was the same age as you and learn to keep my emotions in check.  Still, it was obvious that I was enjoying the exhibit more than the others, and no, I do not feel bad about that.  I would give a lot to feel that way.  You might have some issues but I would not say bi-polar.

DRAGON 2008

"I BELIEVE IN U.S."

Answer 2

The fact you haven't had any more episodes like that makes it unlikely. Irritation (and racing thoughts, etc) might be manic, but you'd have been aware of this I would have thought.

People without depressive disorders can act severly depressed for a few days, and not be diagnosed with a problem. Similarly, the fact you acted manic for a short period once in your life - and in one specific situation - is not enough to support a bipolar diagnosis.

Answer 3

i don't know if what happened when you were 17 was an episode of bipolar disorder. maybe you were just stressed and anxious about the whole new situation, but also excited at the same time...

Answer 4

Generally speaking, bi-polar means regular cycles of highs alternating with depressions.  It sounds like you had a "high" episode, which could have been caused by a lot of things, the excitement of the circumstance,  food, chemicals in the environment, many things.  I don't think you are bi-polar (I am and know it well!).  But if you're on Prozac, didn't a psychiatrist prescribe it, and if so, I would think the psychiatrist evaluated you for your medication and should have caught it if you are bi-polar--it's a bit part of what they do!