is it possible to be "a little bit" bi-polar? Functioning without meds, but feeling ups & downs every day?

Question

I have taken online depression tests and they all reveal that I am moderately depressed. i don't know if I need to seek help or not.

My main deal is that the smallest thing can get me down. I will feel great then something someone says can make me feel horrible for any given amount of time.

Answer 1

Yes, there is a wide variety of symptoms that people can exhibit. You may have dysthymic disorder, which is classified as a mild form of depression -- people with this disorder tend to be more frequently depressed than people with clinical depression, but the degree of depression is usually far less.
If you have periods where you feel "better than good" and on top of the world, perhaps feel inclined to do crazy things without caring -- then you are a candidate for bipolar disorder. If you don't have those periods, then you are a candidate for depression or dysthymic disorder.
Try to keep a log of the events that happen in your life and how you feel for about a month. See if you notice any patterns. Remember, it's normal to feel sad when bad stuff happens -- but if you're feeling sad a lot and you don't know why, you might want to seek medical attention.
I would suggest bringing this log, or even a mental log of the month, to a psychologist or psychiatrist -- don't go to someone who calls themself a psychotherapist...make sure they have a PhD, MD, or PsyD!! They will be able to better determine the course of action to take. You should probably try psychotherapy before you're prescribed a medication, because it can have great effects, and you don't screw with your system.
Good luck!!

Answer 2

You may be a little bipolar. That is to say that you may be experiencing a very, very mild form of it. Without knowing in detail your full mood episodes it is difficult to say. You may also be just a little depressed. Sometimes people are depressed for short periods because of a given situation or event. That is pretty much just the blues and is a normal part of life. If the depression is recurring or lasts more than a week it may be a concern to bring up with your doctor. These things seem to progress until they become a real problem. Bipolar, depression , it doesn't matter. The sooner you get help the better. Check with you doctor. If it is nothing to worry about you have lost nothing. If it is something that need attention then you have a head start on it.

I am bipolar and I put off diagnosis and treatment for years. I regret that very much.

I hope this helps and wish you the best of luck.

Sincerely,
Terry

Answer 3

just like everything else in life that we experience, there can be many levels of certain disorders or illnesses; in psychology, we call this "being on the spectrum." You can be at a certain level of depression or have certain levels of bi-polar (symptoms), while still be able to functionin quite (rationally) "normally" in society. In any case, as you are wondering about your involvement in this disease (depression) and to what extent that it can ultimately have on your life, may I suggest that you get a good physical by a your health care professional who may then suggest a qualified therapist who deals with such issues. If your MD does not suggest it; it would be a good idea if you insisted that she take the time to talk to you about it (your depression) and give you a referal if needed. good luck

p.s. sometimes little issues can become big issues when left unchecked.

Answer 4

yes it is but the problem can be helped by asking your doctor for a drug called wskalith which is a form of lithium. it works by leveling the chemicle imbalance which is causing. if you do not want to yake drugs there is an herb called st johns wort. thich works the same way and is not a drug and is a lot ccheaper than any of the prescription drugs that are on the market cor bi-polar disorder, ihave that problem myself and i hope this will help. i do know that the early stages are hard to recognize, and can be extremely frustrating. check with your doctor andfollow that advice closely because your symptoms can get worsethe longer it goes untreated.

Answer 5

I think it is possible and normal if it is a "little bit". I have also taken online depression tests and have gotten results ranging from mildly depressed to severe/extreme depression. I went to see a shrink and the results leaned more to the mild depression. So mild I did not require any meds. I think you should see a professional before believing those online tests.

Answer 6

Yes, there are several levels of bi-polar. This is caused by a chemical imbalance and can easily be controlled with medication. Get help and the right medication, adjusted especially for you, will stabilize your moods--if the Dr. evaluates you and finds you need it. Good for you for seeking information about this.

Answer 7

Doesn't sound like bi-polar disorder at all.
Could be major depression, dysthymic disorder or one of several others.
But it could be that you are what they call worried well, especially if your are a teen.
If you are still concerned talk to a school counselor or mental health provider.
Gary RN
Psychiatric Nurse.

Answer 8

Been there, done that; it never completely goes away but you can turn it to your advantage: In my case it was not fully understanding why I did things and why some things got to me so much. Try to find the book "Taming Your Gremlin". It is short and fun and an easy read. It didn't "cure" me but I feel a lot more in control of my emotions. I am happier these days. It was enough.

Answer 9

I don't know why everyone want to come on the Bipolar bandwagon its not a fun ride. "a little bit bipolar" i doubt it . look people go thru problems in their lives some people more then others some people are just more sensitive sorry just my opinion.

Answer 10

check with a psychiatrist. I am sure that everybody has mood swings every once in a while, but a doctor's opinion never hurts.