Mood disorder/Bi-polar?

My new psych. went thru my files from 8 plus years ago, 'till now & said I wasn't Bi-polar I had a mood disorder? I thought these were the same? Can someone shed some light for me, please? Thank You, Tres

[aadel]

I would ask the good doctor for clarification.  "Mood Disorder" is an umbrella term that covers a fair number of illnesses:  Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar, Seasonal Affective Disorder etc.  You can't have BP without having a mood disorder, but you can have a mood disorder without having BP.

Did the man mean to say you had a DIFFERENT mood disorder?  Just guessing.

[bernie40]

He sounds like one for not wanting to dish out specific labels and is being vague by saying "mood disorder" (he may not want to commit himself).  I think though that really with the label or not the treatment for most of the mood disorders is relatively the same - mood stabilizers, therapy etc

[tres1965]

I was confused too, as I thought I was 'in the groove' as per my original diagnosis. He just sorta opened a new 'can of worms' so to speak. I had opened up that this depression was kicking my butt the last month, basically reaching out for help. As ya'll know my teen went in patient for a few weeks, & that spurred adark depresseion for me. I feel like I am coming back to reality slpwly, (she's home again) & things SEEM better, so far, so good. Of course all the issues weren't resolved over-night but I think it woke her up to reality. Plus they took her off the Lamictal & put her on Abilify 10. mg.
The Lamictal was causing suicidal tendencies. The Abilify seems to be working, so far, so good! They are weaning me off drugs as I think I've shared with ya'll. I went off 250 mg. of Depakote & 100 mg. of Dylantin. Slowly but surely I see light at the end of a long-long-long tunnel...wish me luck & prayers please! Thanks for listening & caring! Tres

[bernie40]

I do wish you luck and prayers Tres, take care :-)