[GBPackergirl76]

I have extreme moodswings. I have a lot of rage and anger. When I get upset, I get so bad I just want to blow up at everyone. I lose my cool all the time. When I cry, it is heart wrenching. When I'm happy, I am very happy. I am a very smart and intellegent person, but I feel like my emotions hold me back from being a successful person all the time. What is wrong with me? I'm already on citalopram and atitvan.

[likr k]

My assesment would most liekly be Bipolar disorder as well as Manic Depression. Bipolar is clearly highlighted by the mood swings, when your angry you are very angry and when you are happy you are very happy. Generally chemicals in your brain are going hay wire and they just cant decide what to land on. I would also say Manic Depression because your emotions are so hay wire and out of control the possibility of you completing losing your cool and crying is most likely because you can not handle the symptoms you are experiences. The medication you are currently taking really do not help with these so I would reccommend going to your doctor and inquiring about a drug therapy. I suggestWellbutrin XL and Effexor XR together For those of you who ASSUME the are the same they and chose to comment against me it is not the "old' terminologyThe main distinguishing diffference between bipolar disorder and major clinical depression is, of course, the presence of manic episodes. This is why depression alone is not enough to diagnose an individual with bipolar, even if this disease runs in the family. However, even one manic episode (meeting DMS-IV criteria) is sufficient to make a bipolar diagnosis. Distinguishing between these two illnesses makes a big impact on treatment choice; while depression is treated primarily with anti-depressant medication, someone with bipolar disorder needs a mood-stabilizing medication such as lithium or valproate. Taking anti-depressants with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder is a tricky business, because the medication can sometimes trigger a manic episode.

[bwafflessam]

it depends how old r u?

[ownerofcoolcanine]

Bless your heart! I totally understand what you are experiencing and agree with the Bipolar suggestions. Bipolar is basically living in extremes. When we are happy, we are practically 'on top of the world'& when we are sad, we look up to see the bottom of the barrell! You definitely need a psychiatrist & an experienced one for sure. You may have to try a few meds befor finding the right one for you. Do NOT give up! Keep the lines of communication wide open while you find the right med. Remember that you have resources.

[tasha w]

Well first, to clarify for Likr K and anyone who took her answer seriously, Manic Depression is the 'old' terminology for Bi-Polar disorder, meaning that they are one in the same, not seperate disorders as she suggests.Moving on, She may be on the right track...Extreme moods in either direction with very intense feelings are indeed a hallmark of Bi-Polar. If you have a first degree relative who has been diagnosed with Bi-Polar (parent, grandparent, aunt/uncle or sibling), odds are good that this is what you are dealing with. Contact your G.P in the morning and have them refer you to a psychiatrist for an assessment. Bi-Polar has a very specific medication regimen and is pretty treatable with ongoing care