Posted by Janice on March 3, 2000, at 12:09:14
In reply to Re: Weaning off of bipolar meds, posted by cynthia on March 3, 2000, at 9:52:01
Hello Cynthia,
I am also a rapid cycler. Personally, I have never heard of a bipolar person doing well off their medication.
Two times I went off lithium...once I went high, and the second time, after 5 days, the bottom fell out of my life...and I found myself impulsively reaching for pills, any pills, to try to change the way I was feeling. Fortuneately, I caught my impulse in time. I hope you have people around that can gauge your moods for you.
Okay, I'll try to be some help. Following are the practical steps I've taken to help control my rapid cycling. I have listed them in the order that I have found them to help.
1.Go to bed at the same time every night (whether you sleep or not).
2.Get up at the same time every morning (whether you have slept or not).Mania, for me, (I've heard this is common for rapid cyclers) is often brought on by too little sleep, and depression is often brought on by too much sleep.
3.Use a dawn simulator to wake up to.
4.I also use lights (either a visor or light box) sometime in the late morning or early afternoon throughout the late fall and winter. You can find the time of day that lights work best for you, but make sure the timing is consistent.From what I understand, most rapid cyclers experience a seasonal cycle too. I do!
5. Eat nutritiously and at regular times.
I also am a runner. I LOVE running, and it equals the best of any medication I've ever used. But I also have ADHD, and I tend to think my running helps the ADHD more than the bipolar.
You also may want to look into the Omega Oils - there are many posts on this in the archives.
If you are looking for books, why not go to Amazon.com. They will deliver them to your house.
I have never had any physical symptoms (except for insanity) from stopping my medications, so I am unable to help you there. Good luck Cynthia.
I am a little curious as to why you are doing this? If it can be done, come back and let us know. If you have any questions for me, please ask.
take care, Janice
poster:Janice
thread:25457
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000302/msgs/25793.html