What to do?

[Master_Bates]

I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder over 10 years ago. I get angry VERY quick, and sometimes for the stupidist things..i am on NO medication because i can not afford to go to the doctor or to buy the medicine, but the last med i was on was lithium but it really didnt help. My concern is the last couple of times i have flipped out and got so angry that my chest actually starts to hurt, very sharp pain. I weigh 110 lbs if that helps any. Does anyone know what the problem could be and does anyone know of any medicines home remedies or over counter that can help me? Thank you!

[weaver71]

I totally agree with you Anonymouse, even herbs and amino acids should be done with a doctor. I went manic on DLPA in 3 days, not the good kind either. I found a free doctor and a free therapist, or covered by Obamacare anyway. Self medicating for bipolar lead me to find them. It's not easy to monitor myself and I need the accountability. Thanks for pointing that out Anonymouse, good point. Nothing works for everyone.

[Anonymouse88]

St. John's Wort could be a really bad idea for you.  It can trigger mania (has some of the same actions as traditional antidepressants, which are known to trigger mania in some people with bipolar).

@OP: Now that the ACA is in effect, mental health needs to be covered at the same rates as other medical care.  If you have trouble affording the doctor, you might now qualify for medicaid or a hefty subsidy on health insurance.  There are also prescription assistance programs from certain drug companies, and sites with discount cards (like needymeds) that can get you your meds for cheap.  You really shouldn't be trying to treat your bipolar by yourself.

[weaver71]

Oh yeah, be careful with St. John's Wart, it's counter indicative with many meds and is actually pretty strong. It has a similar effect as Xanax and effects other meds in a similar way also.

[weaver71]

I can be happily hypo manic and hear a switch, literally like a light toggle in my head. All my energy goes to anger. Great advise above. I go for a walk or out in the woods and thrash around sometimes, but that's easy to do here. I don't try to figure out why I'm angry, it's because I'm bipolar. I just try to go where there will be no consequences and those who know me have been instructed to leave me alone and not try to help while I'm manically angry. Assuming you are on no other meds, St. John's Wart and L-Tryptophan help calm me. A friend uses GABA for anxiety and irritability too, but don't know personally.

[CRSeaside]

Look into Free Support Groups thru DBSA & NAMI web sites. Pamela

[Master_Bates]

Thank you, i am going to try the walking.

[thatquietgirl]

Your blood pressure probably spikes.  I would suggest journaling both about what has happened in your day and what you suspect may be the root of your anger problem to begin to address the issue and identify triggers, meditation (focus on your breathing and finding your center whether this is through prayer or other methods), exercise, and maintain proper nutrition and water intake.  I do not have an anger problem, but these might help and aren't bad things to get in the habit of.  My cousin has an anger problem, and one of the tools his therapist suggested was for him to walk out when he felt his temper start to flare, take a walk and think about the problem until he can discuss it calmly, then return.  Explain to someone what you are doing before an anger issue arises so they area aware.

  I would suggest looking into signing up for health insurance not only to help address this issue but also to avoid fines.