Dual Diagnosis Forum Addict/Bipolar

[weaver71]

Since I first mentioned my bipolar diagnosis in the addiction forum, I have seen many who are dual diagnosis, but stay in the addiction forum only. I didnt mention bipolar my first year here and nobody else brought it up either, but it is widely known that bipolar are more susceptible to addiction. Many of us can't tell where one ends and the other begins. The issue I see with the bipolar forum, is it is primarily about medications, while Bubbulous, myself, and others have tried to get more discussion of other topics. Maybe a group would be more appropriate, but I see many recovering addicts battling with bipolar and they are terrified of meds, just like I was. The groups always seem to fizzle out, the ones covering bipolar and addiction I visited have anyway. By the way, I don't have an opinion on whether we should or shouldn't be medicated. I just don't want people to avoid nor think themselves into manifesting underlying issues, especially bipolar. I know exactly how terrifying it can be. Anyway, just thought of this and wanted to run it by you.

[Bubulous]

Great suggestion.  Everyone who struggles with addiction has something else going on.  For those of us who struggle with severe mental conditions the depression that comes after the detox can be overwhelming.
If this happens it would be very beneficial.  Until then I would also suggest people go to the bipolar/anxiety/depression forums.  You can start bud by posting on the addiction forum a thread that has to do with dual diagnosis.  Also, I have never done it but you can start your own little community right now to start building momentum.  I will help with it in any way I can.

[weaver71]

Thanks opus, I think there are a lot of people who would benefit from a dual diagnosis forum, partly for those of us who have that diagnosis and partly to help folks who are in detox and talking themselves into being bipolar and are not. It is a diagnosis in itself for a reason, it is a tricky treatment process that differs some from addiction and bipolar on their own. I hope more people speak up and let the Mods know if they think this is a good idea, or not.

[opus88]

thats a great suggestion weaver, you are so right abt dual diagnosis issues...a forum on this would really be helpful to many...hope this gets approval!!

[Kirstie_MHModerator]

Thanks for the suggestion, weaver.