Did you take the MMPI or MMPI-2 tests? I agree with some of the other posters, try to find a good therapist who is knowledgeable about both Bi-Polar and MS(or neurological conditions). Sorry to hear that you lost your cool at work, however, they did interupt your smoke break to come in to a dead zone.

Oh, also want to add it's easy enough to lose your ability to concentrate when you are feeling like you are doing boring, mundane work. Maybe that plays a huge role in your irritability?? Customer service call centers aren't the easiest of jobs...

And also, I think it's great that you are seeking some outside help, where you are feeling like your emotions are getting the best of you.


ADDING: Do you think it's possible that your irritability is caused by some form of nicotine withdrawal? I mean this, if nicotine is such an addictive drug(albeit legal), then wouldn't it stand to reason that the irritability you suffer with is some form of withdrawal? I mean, it seems sooooo quick for you to get this Bi-Polar dx. Just a thought on my mind as I was reading through the NIMH link shared by Cherie.

I forgot to post the info I have on "emotional lability" (or Pseudobulbar affect (PBA)) that often occurs with MS:

http://www.mssociety.org.uk/doc_stor...d_Emotions.pdf

http://www.nationalmssociety.org/abo...ges/index.aspx

http://www.pbatrial.com/

My mom had schizophrenia (not MS tho'), and I've witnessed "mild" through to "severe" mental illness. I've also seen what the wrong chemicals can DO to a person, so I think it is very important you are properly evaluated!!

Bi-polar is more common in MS then the general population, but if I recall correctly, not THAT much more common. I think something like 1% of the general population has bi-polar, and 2% of people with MS have it. MANY of us have emotional lability though, and it manifests itself somewhat similar to bi-polar . . . the difference really is how "extreme" the behavior is.

Please get a proper evaluation before starting on a drug such as lithium.

Cherie

Thanks Cherie for these links! Very Informative

I like the idea of emotional lability as a means to explain a quick and sudden burst of anger over the idea that one is bi-polar---even if such a dx runs in the family. Also, I think in the States, so many dr's are a bit quick to jump on the Bi-polar bandwagon based on anger alone.

I'd like to think that in this day and age, one would could through a period of consultation before an official dx was handed out---even with those tests. As Cherie stated the wrong meds can wreak havoc with an individual....

I have BP and have been in limboland with things here. That is beside the point.

The BP stuff. It is always best to get a second opinion to put your state of mind at ease. For that doctor to put you on meds just because you have mental illness in your family mostly and due to rough day at work that might have some behaviors that are associated with an illness is not being rational on their part. They need to do a complete 45 minute interview with you about your behaviors, etc. If they did not do this and they just prescribed you meds then it would be best to get another opinion for your mental healths sake.

Mental illness runs in my family and I had been through the ringer of therapists, doctors and psychiatrists til I was finally dx'd with BP at the age of 32. My twin sister was dxd two years later with BP. We both also have other health problems that are parallel.

If you ever have any doubts about taking medicine, always get a second opinion, especially if they are psych meds. Take it from someone who takes too many of those meds!

Hang in there. I hope you have a good day today.

Hugs,

Coffeegirl