Bipolar 1 Disorder or Bipolar 2 Disorder - Which is Worse?

Bipolar disorder 1 vs 2, which is worse? There is a common misconception that bipolar 2 is a milder form of bipolar 1 and therefore probably less of a problem. This can lead to people feeling as though they don't need to get treatment if they have bipolar disorder. In this video I give you the definitions of bipolar 1 and bipolar 2 disorders.
Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder that has two states. Depressive episodes and manic or hypomanic episodes. Manic episodes are defined as the following according to the diagnostic and statistical manual fifth edition
A period of abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood and abnormally and persistently increased activity or energy, lasting at least 1 week and present most of the day, nearly every day.
And then you have 3 of the following: or 4 if your mood is irritable instead of elevated
1. Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity.
2. Decreased need for sleep
3. More talkative than usual or pressure to keep talking.
4. Flight of ideas or racing thoughts
5. Distractibility
6. Increase in goal-directed activity or psychomotor agitation
7. Excessive involvement in activities that have a high potential for painful consequences (e.g., engaging in unrestrained buying sprees, sexual indiscretions, or foolish business investments).
Hypomania is the same thing has the same symptoms except that they only need to last for four days. Also a second main difference with hypomania is that the symptoms don't cause real impairment in your functioning.
The reason bipolar 2 is not really a milder form of bipolar 1 is because people with bipolar 2 disorder tend to have a more chronic course to their illness. They tend to spend more time depressed than people with bipolar 1.
So bipolar 1 may be more intense, but bipolar 2 can be more chronic and persistent. Also the number of lifetime episodes of hypomania and depression tends to be more for bipolar 2 disorder than for bipolar 1 disorder or major depression.
I upload every Wednesday at 9am, and sometimes have extra videos in between. Subscribe to my channel so you don't miss a video goo.gl/DFfT33

[@DrTraceyMarks]

WATCH NEXT - *What is Bipolar Spectrum?* kzbin.info/www/bejne/aoi7k6mwerGqqZI

[@melnelson2587]

Hi I was diagnosed as bipolar but was never told where I fall on the spectrum. I suffer more from depression but I have had 2 full blown manic episodes. It sounds like I am a mix of both? Or maybe I’m not understanding the difference between the two

[@joiscorpio6386]

So which one is worse I don't understand?

[@EthanPearson]

@@melnelson2587 If you've experienced mania, then you have bipolar I disorder.

[@EthanPearson]

@@joiscorpio6386 Both are similar, yet different. And neither are worse.

[@daleprice9935]

What is worse than the terrible side effects from so called anti depressants? I never had such intense suicidal feelings, since I was put on mirtazipine! Robin Williams was on a high dose of mirtazipine!

[@clairesackett4216]

I have bipolar 2 I guess and but for a long time I just thought I had depression and I just thought being talkative anxious energetic was just my personality

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Hi Claire. I'm glad you've got some more insight now.

[@kaybe8915]

Same, I've been diagnosed with recurrent depressive episodes (depression I've suffered with since childhood hut only sought help at 18)... except I don't believe this to be the right diagnosis Is there an assessment for bipolar? I suffer more depressive episodes than manic/high-functioning. Used to have longer episodes that allowed me some level of stability (ability to dig myself out of a very dark place only to crash again) but now finding instead of months between the highs and lows it changes daily and I'm more exhauated than ever! Meds I've tried don't help and on top of that I have to deal with the side effect. Losing/lost all hope.

[@maryp3800]

Ruby Ruby Don’t ever give up. See a different Psychiatrist for another opinion if you haven’t already. Keep going back until you feel satisfied that you are responding to treatment. See a psychologist for ongoing encouragement and to learn strategies for coping with your symptoms. I’ve had problems with what I thought were mood swings and was diagnosed as pre menstrual dysphoric syndrome and only realised something wasn’t right with the diagnosis after menopause and the symptoms were still there...experienced a bad and persistent depression, so finally sought out a psychiatrist who diagnosed bipolar 2 and am now on meds that are helping. I want to encourage to never give up. Mxxxxx

[@PianoDanny]

Mary Ponsford could I ask which meds you’re on? May not work for me, but I’m always interested in what works for others 😌...

[@maryp3800]

Danny Kuperberg Mood stabiliser: Lamotrigine and SSRI; Desvenlafaxine. All the best to you. Mx

[@saraceppos3956]

I was diagnosed w/ Bipolar 2 when I was 14. I have spent 21 years reading and learning as best I can. I have a strong opinion on the way people talk about it on TV and movies. I don’t think people really understand it. I love your video because it is all the things I wish people would understand. I’m on medication but I still have hard days. Mental illness is something that makes people uncomfortable and the judge you for it. I have bad days just like everyone else. I fight everyday to get out of bed and go to work. I have a full time job and own my house. That is something I lot people can’t do even with out a mental illness. I wish people would see me for my strengths not my weaknesses. Thank you for doing this video. I hope a lot of people watch and understand.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Hi Sara. I tend to get defensive when I hear people throw around the term "bipolar" flippantly. "She's so bipolar." It really is poorly understood by the masses. Although it's still tough for you, I'm glad to hear you've been able to reach certain milestones like working and home ownership. Keep up the good fight. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@lynn82680]

@@DrTraceyMarks dealing with these types of diagnosis with my daughter except my daughter started issues at a very young age. She has had 3 inpatient stays, at this time is in inpatient which makes the 3rd time, she has many diagnosis and Drs are helpful and aware and say all over every spectrum possible so they watch her. Yet I hear alot from professionals, videos, and others that children should not and it is impossible for children 6and up or even younger to be be diagnosis with these severe type diagnosis yet if in 2 years a child has a psycosis 2 to 3 times, with many other diagnosis and family history of just about everything in the book do you at all feel it is possible for a young child to have early unset of say bipolar diagnosis, schizophrenia spectrum diagnosis,asd even though it's is seen but mood disorder takes over more. I'm currently dealing with this and doctors are cautious and I like that but if it is what they feel bit being cautious what will become of a child in later life with Drs that are cautious about diagnosis even if it's there and why is it that children having these disorders are not somewhat talked about more then it is in adults concidering there is more children with severe diagnosis

[@Jessanangel]

Sara Ceppos I applaud you! CONGRATULATIONS! Judgment is so condemning, yet your not just a survivor, you have overcome huge obstacles and continue to overcome everyday that you get up and go to work, every month that you pay your expenses, every time you stand up for yourself, every time you 😊 smile.

[@katheryn3138]

I was diagnosed with bipolar 2 when i was 13. I am currently 14 but my “metal health journey” started around the age of 11 and 12. Do you have any tips or symptoms because I begin to question myself about whether or not if i actually have bipolar.

[@2ndhome471]

@@katheryn3138 I would write a personal note to the Dr. for help with your questions.

[@miamoyag589]

where are my bipolar 2 buddies at we all depressed :( but we will be okay soooonnnn

[@lovelysonico]

you too

[@charger19691]

I recently found out that I’ve been diagnosed with Bipolar 2 disorder. I’ve dealt with this for over 40 years (I’m 52) and was originally diagnosed with major depressive disorder. I’ve been on a laundry list of the standard anti depressants over the years, nothing has worked successfully. I’ve developed an addiction to Paxil , (Paroxetine) that when I try to go off of it, I feel like I want to die, so I’m being weaned off of it very slowly while I’ve started a new drug called Lamotrigine. I’m praying this helps because Paxil makes me feel like a zombie and I work 12 hour shifts, things can get really brutal with being constantly tired. I just want to tell everyone suffering from any type of mental illness to stay positive and seek help and don’t suffer in silence. There are good people out there that can help you manage your symptoms. God bless you all.

[@beautifulchaos4383]

I had a few manic/hypomanic episodes in my twenties,then mostly major depression there after. I'm 49, and the depression is so severe I have frequent suicidal thoughts. It's so difficult

[@s4mpson]

Some of us won't.

[@larigranados7922]

I have Bipolar 1 and what kills me is the hallucinations. They’re very scary and very intense. Also Mania is a pain in the butt, I don’t know I’m in a manic episode until I’ve wasted lots of money on pointless items. Thank you Doc for giving me a sense of direction and helping me feel validated💖

[@topdeadcenter9396]

I turned 23 a few months ago, I thought "oh, yeah I had those things happen before." But recently within a month or two I just started having them and my sleep quality has dropped like a rock. I feel like the hallucinations are a very underrated aspect. But I also could be Schizoaffective - so time will tell. I do appreicate you mentioning it, because it's 100% overlooked.

[@ranaclarizio4696]

I am truly sorry My son suffers as well I wish I could take it away from you

[@evangelineo]

I’m sorry for your loss ❤

[@jernmegmom]

Same, I never realize I’m manic until random and excessive packages start showing up at my home. No big deal, usually, because I can usually return them. UNLESS, I’ve been winning auctions on EBay at any cost, just to win.

[@lina-ki4jc]

I have bipolar 1 but I don’t really get hallucinations I mostly get delusional and paranoid like very bad, I start to get into a state of psychosis and it’s terrifying

[@lisabarraclough5957]

My sister was Bipolar 1, in and out of hospitals for the decade before she took her life in July last year. Her hyper-mania episodes were terrifying. Thank you for doing these videos.

[@Sapioso]

Sorry 🥺

[@glowwithmeowmeow4221]

sorry

[@djmarycruz]

:( may she rest in peace

[@sarahshepherd1734]

im so sorry about your sister

[@lisahall1989]

​@@SapiosoI'm very sorry.

[@G0dspeed101]

I’m Bipolar 2 and this is so true. I was misdiagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder because I had depression years prior to my first Hypomanic episode (but was diagnosed MDD years after developing depression) I didn’t even notice my hypomanic episodes because they were so short, mild, and honestly.. appreciated. When you go weeks to absolute months on end with severe depression, terrible dark thoughts, unable to sleep, but also unable to wake up or get out of bed. Your grades drop, you isolate yourself and such. You just don’t want to do anything or be anything anymore and then suddenly now you’re feeling great, talkative, looking forced to life and goals. It’s such a reliever for the depressed person… Unfortunately, being hypomanic means the impulsiveness, irritation, and the overspending and sometimes getting into trouble which can lead to guilt and another depressive episode following because after a hypomanic episode, I either… Go right back into a depressive episode, go into a mixed episode which is the worst, or be stable for a few weeks.

[@amandaplunkett1166]

I’m not sure what you’re taking for yours and we’re all different. Latuda has really made a difference for me.

[@mrsbe9531]

I have bipolar 2, and I always felt like I shouldn't complain, because it wasn't bad as bipolar 1 - I don't get as many manic episodes because of my medication. But my depressive episodes when they sneak in are AWFUL. This explanation makes me feel less insane, thank you so much for this. I can share this with my parents, who are constantly trying to understand my bipolar.

[@mhernandez272]

Thank you. As a mother of a 25 year-old son with Bipolar 1 and a 23-year old daughter with Bipolar 2, I FINALLY UNDERSTAND THE DIFFERENCE. Your videos are so helpful for my family and me. Thank you!

[@samhain9394]

You should have known the difference between your children long before a KZbin channel discovery.

[@AFateSoTwisted]

I have been diagnosed with Bipolar 1, but I have severe depressive episodes. I don't think you can really put anybody in a specific category. Everybody is different. I lost my husband to a car accident in 2011 and it has been hard to hold myself together since then. He kept me on solid ground for years. When he died, I knew I wasn't going to be okay for very long.

[@madd_megz]

I'm so sorry! And I think the same. I'm bipolar 1 and never been committed or arrested.... I've been close many times tho. I'm rare according to her. I also have mixed states which apparently is bipolar 1 too. I dunno. I think everyone doesn't know much. Mental health is still so new

[@TheePrettyTomboy]

Praying for your healing ❤️‍🩹 🙏🏾

[@bumblebee6573]

Yes these doctors unless they know you can't make a determination based on a broad consensus. I was diagnosed incorrectly by these doctors who in my opinion don't give a shit. I just went thru hell but they didn't know I was sexually assaulted by my ex. They treated me like I was crazy. These doctors don't care in my opinion to take the time to know why you lost your mind. We suffer in silence and their sick need to use harmful pharmaceutical drugs without caring why we act the way we do is criminal. I feel your pain. Only we know our bodies and our pain. I hope you get better I understand loss especially losing my mother in a car accident.

[@Anto_81]

@@madd_megz the problem is, of they want you to give the wrong medicines, is that not gonna hurt even more? I was told I'm bipolar by a very young doctor and I don't recognise myself in such description. He wants me to take lithium but I refused...

[@SiddharthSingh-hx1bp]

Yes, very true. I say this by personal experience. Plus if you add anxiety to Bipolar disorder, it can make you do things you'll regret your entire life. That's a terrible combination, and sometimes deadly too.

[@RashawndaJames]

This is great information! People often don’t know that there are 2 types.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks, you're right.

[@kirstyxxxxx9900]

There’s a third type - Cyclothymia.

[@tobe3906]

i was told that there's a long list of various types of bipolar by a psychiatrist.

[@criselletul-id7305]

DOC, Can you give some example of Bipolar 1,Bipolar 2 and the Cyclothymia?... Thank you❤️

[@rodneuer4600]

to be 3 specifically, then there are variations of those

[@HaHaHannah1369]

I have bipolar 2 but it’s still very disruptive. I was diagnosed with 1 as a teen but 2 as an adult- I’m assuming learning more coping skills to bring myself back down has led to a decrease in disruptiveness but I spend probably 75% of my life depressed for months at a time as opposed to swings within a few weeks. But the mania is a welcome break, despite how disruptive it can be, because of how low those lows are. Bottoming out is the perfect word. You’re out of service until you slowly fix yourself up enough to function. I’ve gone months without showering, lost numerous jobs because I couldn’t get out of bed, destroyed relationships. But the mania, the zero savings, hyper sexuality with multiple partners, the belief that everyone is out to get you, everyone hates you but eff that you’re the best and everyone should love you. God I wish it was taken more seriously. So often we toss out that she’s so “ bipolar” without realizing. It’s like saying that girl “has cancer” you wouldn’t do that, it’s weird and It sucks. Thanks for coming to my manic rant that didn’t make sense. ❤️

[@cgsbff]

You made sense.

[@minoltaaraya]

This was very relatable thank you for sharing. ❤

[@samhain9394]

Can relate. I was Dx BPAD 2 Rapid Cycling, because my hypo/manic episodes usually last 3-4 days and then crash... Because it's hard to go without eating or sleeping much longer than that before your system shuts down. I also have some severe sleep conditions (UARS), central apneas and narcolepsy, so eventually sleep always wins, but the quality of sleep after a manic episode is worse than ever. I guess he couldn't give me bipolar one because my mania doesn't usually last for a week straight. Usually once I sleep it kind of resets me back to depressed, which is where i stay the rest of the time-extremely suicidal, nihilistic and angry at the world that never accepted or consoled me. My baseline is maybe a 2/10. My dog is the only reason i keep going-she relies on me and i owe her everything for giving me a reason to stay here for the last 16 years. But she's aging and it's almost over. We're trying everything, but nothing helps. Lamotrigine is barely noticeable. Abilify didn't do shit except give me terrible insomnia and broken sleep and irritability after quitting. Latuda knocked me out for almost 2 weeks straight, with severe manic irritability and lashing out at people unprovoked in events i didn't remember after my next narcoleptic fit/depressive nap in between naps and full days of sleep. Everybody seems to be confused which box to put me in for mood disorders, but I'm also ADHD-Autistic with CPTSD, BPD and fucking hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome so who knows why my stupid mood fluctuations don't fit the DSM rubrics written by white males with no problems. One psych says BPAD1 experiences depression without much/ severe suicidality and milder hypomania that doesn't include loss of sleep or losing your fucking shit on people... The next one like this lady says BPAD1 is depressed as a default and has hypomania but the cycles are more frequent than with BPAD2... Well which is it?! What about someone with severe daily suicidality even when manic, with textbook display of mania, a personal history of manic breakdowns but a family and social surrounding absent of anyone who actually cares enough to call the paramedics when the mania is at its worst? Why can't people who don't have a good support system be diagnosed properly just because they didn't have the awareness and ability to call 5150 on themselves? Which stupid subtype is "rapid cycling" and why, or can we get a fuckin "Type 3" designation to acknowledge that people can be both suicidal and manic at the same time, or hour by hour? DSM-5 is fkd bs.

[@lynstrawberry5645]

Bottoming out. Totally. 💯

[@Moon-Marie]

It made perfect sense.

[@nastassiavanheerden2507]

Bipolar 1 absolutely ruined my life, and hospitalization was the worst time of my life, but if I think about it now, being in the hospital helped more than I knew at the time, and treatment and medication has really changed my life. People always say you don't need medication it's all in your mind, nothing is wrong with you, but just because I'm good at hiding it doesn't mean it's not there. If anyone is considering stopping treatment and medication because they're feeling better, don't. Just don't. You'll be thankful in the long run. Take care of yourselves❤

[@lumpy9964]

The thing that I hate about taking the medication though is all the brain fog and loss for words I get during conversation. When I'm off my meds and getting hypomanic, I can think freely and the right words always seem to come out. I seem intellectual while still being respectful during conversation not cutting people off and rambling like full blown mania. When I'm on the meds however, sure my mood is stable and I'm super calm, but I can't think clearly and I stutter and pause in speech all the time thinking for the right wordage to use. I know it's for the better to stay on the meds, but that's the factor that always seems to trick me into not taking them is the free thinking . It's like I can never be a normal functioning human being no matter what meds I'm on (or off of), there's always an ongoing battle mentally and it all just sucks, but oh well I guess that's just how it is having this dreadful mental illness. I am on my meds currently and I completely hate it, and yes I've tried plenty of others with the same results. However, I understand doing it this way far outweighs the cons of being off them and going full blown manic back into hospitalization again, so I'm just gonna keep pushing on I guess!!

[@kayla4702]

I cannot agree with you more about avoiding the "I'm fine trap" with medication. Ive been diagnosed Bipolar 1 since I was younger and have really just in the past few years been consistent with my medications and cannot stress enough how they have saved my life. And that combined with therapy work and educational content like these vids and books have also helped too.

[@goriotv2023]

I was diagnosed with Bipolar 1 last week. Man its really difficult. I just want to give up. I do everything to keep myself busy. I run, bike and do some research for my illness. I hope and pray that I can overcome this mental illness.

[@evenstar253]

Thanks for the video! I have no doubt bipolar 1 is a nightmare, but I get tired of hearing bipolar 2 described as less severe because our struggles are less obvious. For me, the worst is the agitated depression. I don't know if it would be classified as hypomania or a mixed state, but I know the feeling when it comes. It scared me when it first started happening, since I had no idea what was going on. I was still pretty functional, though. After landing in the hospital and initially treated for depression, I was very fortunate to get a therapist who picked up on the bipolar right away. Years later, things aren't perfect by any means, but I can function like a normal, stable human being. If things get bad, I know they'll get better again, because they always have. I hope research continues to find better treatments and that videos like yours chip away at the stigma still associated with these illnesses.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Hi evenstar253. Thanks for this. Yes that agitated depression can be pretty bad. I'm glad you're on the other side and have some consistent stability. Thanks for watching and supporting my channel.🙂

[@alexchavez3244]

Dr. Tracey Marks type one because it’s like a car trying to change its wheels on a track that never ends type two is like changing wheels every month or season on what episode happen or triggers.

[@caraboo7447]

Nice

[@lindamonti3943]

evenstar253 can you help me find the video you made that was about what the difference is between bipolar 1 vs bipolar 2

[@roziedb]

evenstar253 z

[@keeshialchief6690]

I payed for tandem skydiving during a manic episode, the time came 2 months later and the company called to ask where I was, but it was during a depressive episode and I had totally forgot about it.

[@billiebinksxo5145]

Bipolar ll doesnt mean its "less severe" at all, i suffer with this type of Bipolar if anything my depression is more severe and a longer

[@gabrielpatten6939]

I seem to be bipolar 2 as well, and since the age of 11-12 its been severe depression about 75% of the time. I've only ever experienced a manic "high" maybe 1-2 times in my 32 years of life. For me, the hypomanic episodes are either extereme irritability or feeling as horny as a cat in heat

[@saywhatyouwant888]

Am bp2 past 20 years and God am sick of life ..nothing gotten easy

[@Dani._ella]

@@saywhatyouwant888 same here.

[@beautifulchaos4383]

YES 100%

[@katydid4929]

Got misdiagnosed for 4-5 years before I was diagnosed with Type I Bipolar Disorder. It’s one of the most difficult mental illness to deal with it. It takes a lot of therapy, medication, and self care. Without any of that I’d more than likely wouldn’t be here right now. It’s very hard to deal with in a relationship since it affects your partner as well. I’m glad BP is finally being talked about. There’s so much stigma around BP and many people think it’s just being crazy happy and then immediately switching to being crazy mean. I see girls on social media say “I’m so bipolar” after saying they got super angry out of nowhere and threw stuff at their boyfriend or just got in a really bad fight and did something incredibly abusive and they use bipolar disorder to try and make excuses for their actions. A lot of people see others with bipolar disorder as crazy or violent when that’s not always the case.

[@kionyaf7408]

This is so true actually people with bipolar harm them selves more than other people ,this is why I hated that movie Bat man the last one is was about a man with mental health killing everyone ,it’s terrible ,it made us look terrible

[@jadenicole0404]

I have Bipolar 1 disorder and people are always surprised when they hear that I have it because I'm a happy person. When I'm taking my meds I'm pretty stable.

[@justmai2476]

Bipolar II definitely is very very intense. Went through the MDD box, then the treatment resistant depression one, and finally was diagnosed with bipolar 2 disorder. Regardless, the depression associated with it, suicidal ideation, self harm urges and the negative feelings are a truck load to deal with. I'm glad you took the time to debunk this myth though, thank you!

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're welcome. I think the current climate of increasing suicides shows us how serious depression is.

[@justmai2476]

I definitely agree. I myself am 17 and I've always found questionable the myth that "younger people are presenting more and more symptoms of mental disorders", but I'm no longer so sure... I assumed it was mainly due to the (slow but ongoing) destigmatization of mental illness and of the media coverage mental health is getting. Any thoughts, Dr. Marks?

[@DrTraceyMarks]

I think you hit the nail on the head. Sometimes when we see an increase in the incidence of a disorder (like autism and others), the reason for the increase is because of more people being identified either through better testing or in the case with depression - removal of social barriers that make it easier for people to report their symptoms.

[@justmai2476]

Great, thanks for responding!

[@philgortbarten]

typing as a 'patient' from the UK... and one who has been on a combo of meds for 12 ish years.. just dealing w the side effects and so on is enough to make me closer to suicide than I was when I was first 'diagnosed'. (that was in A&E). they are life sappers.

[@taraking6334]

Thank you. I was diagnosed with Bipolar 1 yesterday. My manic episodes ruined my life last year. I knew there was something off before. I'm still picking up pieces from last year. Finally got a real diagnosis and started treatment.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Great Tara. Now you’ve got a good starting point. I’m glad you’re on the right track. You may want to watch my bipolar playlist. I group all of my bipolar disorder videos. I continue to add more to it. Bipolar playlist goo.gl/1hKamL

[@aidenhall2508]

I’ve been studying psychology for over a year now and feel like I finally have a full understanding of this disorder, thank you!

[@Ohboycommentsection]

It's always good to educate yourself and let it be on going because there's so much more research that needs to be done! 😊

[@Ohboycommentsection]

A nice concise video that makes it so that we don't have a contest in suffering. I'm a female who's been treated for bipolar type 1 for over 20 years now. From my experience, manic episodes are not that frequent for me because I have maybe one every 5 years or so. Sometimes people have asked me to explain what mania is like and I just kind of grimace and say, "Well I know I'm manic once the cops get involved and I'm in the hospital the next moment with no memory of how I got there." Manic episodes can be incredibly embarrassing. 🙃

[@cl03cl]

I’m diagnosed with bipolar one and it’s hell. It ruined so many relationships with friends.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

I'm sorry you've had that experience. Maybe some of them are mendable with second chances...

[@downtownfarm]

@@DrTraceyMarks unfortunately not. i just lost the woman that i was planning to propose to in November 2020. But in April 2020 the pandemic stress triggered a manic / hypomanic episode while under lockdown alone in a developing country and it lasted for over one year. It wiped out everything. I had been stable for almost 10 years. Now I am looking at the smoldering ruins of a life that seemed so promising in March 2020.

[@jayhennessy420]

@@downtownfarm so I’m guessing that you’re on opioids

[@jayhennessy420]

@@downtownfarm the longer a person is on those drugs the less happy they’re going to be

[@jayhennessy420]

@@downtownfarm I used to be on that shit too but I’ve made the move to medical marijuana and I am better than I have ever been

[@PK-mx7nf]

Very good explanation. Where I live (Denmark), I feel bipolar 2 is not very well known and understand. Most psychiatrists i've seen seem to hardly know anything about it and much less than what i've managed to research myself. I think there are a lot of people here who actually have bipolar 2 and not recurrent depression as they are told. That is what I finally realised myself and was put on mood stabilizer and anti-depressives. It did help a lot, but it's a continuous struggle living with this. The hypomania is only an issue if it's an aggressive, angry, irritable episode. Otherwise I just feel on top of the world and very positive. The worst part is the recurrent depression for no explainable reason what so ever. I hate when people ask me how i'm doing and I tell them i'm depressed. They always ask me "why are you feeling depressed". There is no reason I tell them, it just happens... Awful thing to live with.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

HI PK I hear you. I hear that a lot from patients - "Why am I depressed? I have no reason for it?" It's one thing for the person to struggle with it and have to come to grips with that reality, but there's something a little offensive about someone else saying "what's your problem, you don't have a reason to be depressed?"

[@bettinanielsen6336]

I can relate!

[@patriciafisher3108]

PK, My grandmother and her twin sister emigrated from Denmark many, many years ago. Just wanted to say "Hello"

[@trude8073]

P K that is so weird because here in Norway it is apparantly more known than in Denmark😳

[@martharmx52]

Hi everybody.. I can relate to your story with the stigma and the aweful comments....and my depression it’s so exhausted 😩 .....I’m from Mexico and here most of the time if you tell someone that you have a mental illness is like you tell them.... You are crazy, you want to be depressed, that is your fault.... or it will be better...like you have a cold...things like that....it’s aweful and so sad. I think the main problem is that the society judge, don’t understand that it’s really and illness and is not our fault....we need more help like dr. Tracy, more information, talk about our story’s and be with people that really care, empathy and ....maybe they don’t understand everything but they could help a lot by just showing or being there for us!....you are not alone.....there’s a lot of us in this same journey 💪take care!

[@southernchick9077]

I am bipolar 2. I was actually diagnosed when the name was still manic depressive. That was almost 40 years ago. This video simplifies the distinction btw the 2. Thanks.

[@beautifulchaos4383]

Same

[@shaylovelystill]

Thanks for making this clear for myself. I was diagnosed with bipolar 2. Didn't read much into self at first. Now I'm clearer about it. Subscribed

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Excellent. I'm glad to hear this. Best wishes to you.

[@patricealexander9628]

Shay Lovely Still recently diagnosed myself. It’s a journey.

[@tanyawillis2630]

@@patricealexander9628 me too

[@sobansingh7100]

@@DrTraceyMarks Mam can you tell if i had a mental illness or not as 2 YEARS BACK I WAS ALONE AND THERE WAS A LOT OF STRESS OF MY STUDIES FOR CLASS 10 AS I HAD TO DO FULL COURSE ALONE IN HOME WITHOUT FRIEND AND I ALSO DID IT..I SCORE BÊTTER MARKS IN THAT CLASS...BUT DUE TO THAT STRESS MY ALL ROUTINE WERE MESS UPS...AS I DONT URGE TO HAVE MY OWN NECESSARY PLEASURE TOO AS SEXUAL INTENTION AND ALL.MBUT I OVER COME IT IN LOCK DOWN BY MANAGING BETTER ROUTINE AS MY UNDERSTANDNG ...BUT AFTER 4 MONTHS TO 5 MONTHS WHEN OUR SCHOOL REIPEN I HAD ANXITY AS I WAS ALONE AT THAT TIME SINCE MY 10..AND AFTER THAT OMICRON VIRUS SPREAD AROUND AND I UNFORTUNITY I GET IT WITH JOUNDICE AND TYPHOID...AND FROM THEN I DID NT FET BETER SLEEP AS I WANT AND HAD DEPRESSIVE EPISODE AND ..UNABLE TO RRCOVER KY SELF...AS I DID ARLIER...FEEING GUILTY.M.BUT AT SAME TIME HAVE A FEELING OF THINGS WILL GET BETTER...CAN YOU SUGGEST WHAT THIS CAN BE.....OR NOTHING IS IT.

[@sobansingh7100]

@@DrTraceyMarks plzz had reply it.mam

[@kelly1573]

I, too, felt that being Bipolar II was a no big deal compared to Bipolar I. Having watched your video, I feel better knowing that irritability, anger, etc. is a hypomanic episode and that I'm not weak by having depression on top of being Bipolar.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Excellent, that's awesome Kelly! Thanks for chiming in.

[@averageokie3959]

I also have been diagnosed as bipolar 2. November 3rd this year, also on lamotrigine 50mg a day. I guess i had a hypo moment the other day..was irritable, then that made me angry cause i couldn't pinpoint why i was irritated. I tried to get in a better mood..utter fail, it only made me a lot more angry. Tried going to the store with my husband and sons, big mistake (i usually either stay in the car or stay home)..nope i went in..wrong move! The store was packed and yeah everything was rubbing me the wrong way, my hip was hurting (bursitis in right hip) and hubby was walking too fast and leaving me..oh man..i went off and walked back to the truck. Fuming and inventing a new cuss word dictionary..i hated everyone and anything at that moment. So yeah..hypomania has a few sides with me. Its a fun rollercoaster..not.

[@BradfordplainviewCre8iv]

Are you guys always in either of these states... or is there a baseline time in between?

[@cthulhucult3230]

@@BradfordplainviewCre8iv there are periods where people are baseline

[@BlazeInferno360]

You have made me feel REALLY good about myself. I'm glad that I have part 2 instead of part 1.

[@olivierbeohon1775]

WOW Doctor. You really broke this one down very well for me. I am a Medical student and I have always been very confused about these two disorders, but after watching your video, no more confusion. This is great work. Please keep up. Thank you so much.

[@paulflint6254]

I have bipolar 1, the mania has been very extreme. Great video.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thank you Doctor Who🙂

[@moonmama588]

Thank you so much for making this video. I’ve been diagnosed with Bipolar 2 Disorder and I have been suffering the stigma that it’s just “not as bad”. This brought me so much relief that I’m not ‘overreacting’ and that what I go through is real and so important.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

I'm so glad to hear that. The effort that goes into making these videos is all worth it when I hear comments like this. Thank you!

[@vkkna]

I am bipolar 2, successfully treated 30 yrs now. Even so I really struggle and only recently learned I’m not alone in this. I almost believed “the lies”. Thank you for sharing your knowledge on this topic.

[@squirrelymay]

Thank you for making these videos, Dr Marks. I love your straightforward delivery and the variety of subject matters you cover on your channel. It's a wonderful public service.

[@laurapinzon3118]

I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder II and your videos really helped me understand my illness better. Sometimes like you said I feel like it is okay and I don’t need meds to get by because I’m hypomanic, then eventually with time, after not taking the medicine; I’ll enter a depressive episode which can sometimes be more intense than others but lingers for weeks at a time.

[@kristenmjensen]

Thank you so much for sharing this. Very classy lady.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks so much Kristen!

[@mluse9453]

i have been Bipolar most of my life. I can still remember a time when my Dad told me I needed to get control of my temper and then he walked away and I stood in the hallway thinking how? I was not diagnosed until I committed a successful suicide October 12 2015 but God wanted me to live. So at the age of 59 years is when I told my doctors I thought I was Bipolar. Ever since then they have paid closer attention to me medically and monitor my meds better but like most doctors today they have to rely on us to help them know what is happening with us so the doctors can properly treat us. Not Enough Properly Trained Doctors To Go Around That Genuinely Care About The Person In Front Of Them!!!!! God Bless Those That Do!!!

[@mssunshine8024]

Hope you are feeling ok. I pray that God brings you peace that your symptoms are minimal n controlled in Jesus name. Amen

[@charlottelesire]

You can tell you are a very dedicated and passionate doctor. Thank you for your videos.

[@melissawhite5116]

Thank you for what you've done putting up these videos. I really appreciate your caring and helping us learn more.

[@maddiewilliams5243]

This is absolutely the best description I’ve ever heard of Bipolar 2! I had been talking with my therapist and we thought that it might fit my symptoms but this has made it much clearer to me! Thank you so much!

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're so welcome Maddie. I'm glad it helped.

[@ATJ253]

Thank you so much. I have been diagnosed incorrectly throughout my childhood, however, recently I was correctly diagnosed with bipolar 2 disorder. This has helped me understand myself in such a massive way. I really appreciate this beyond words

[@TheSuccessGuyPR]

Love how thorough your explanations are. Thank you!

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Than YOU! I appreciate the feedback.

[@Lancetronium]

Thanks for sharing Dr Tracy. I've had bipolar II and type 1 diabetes for a long time now. It's really been hell for me. I wish more people knew what people with this condition had to go through, because I know it's hard for people to understand why I can't be more productive, even though I really want to be.

[@1jenije]

Thank you so much for adressing this! For me suffering from Bipolar 2 disorder it is a real stuggle, which has lead to me being partially disabled due to the sverely of it and how chronicall it tends to be. I feel like it is important for people to know that having type 2 bipolar disorder can be equally distructive as type 1, they are just different. Which ever one you have deserves understranding for the hardships it brings into your life.

[@MyBipolarVlog]

I have spent my six plus decade life trying not to reveal the struggles of living with Bipolar II. I was misdiagnosed with Major Depression in my forties and almost died in a motorcycle accident when my Zoloft prescription likely triggered hypomania, which I self-medicated with alcohol, leading to wreckless and careless behavior. I was misdiagnosed with Bipolar I in my fifties within five minutes of a frst time visit with a psychiatrist(despite never ha ing been hospitalized for mania), then finally diagnosed Bipolar II and successfully treated for some time with Lamictal. I live abroad now and not under a doctor's care. I found your channel as I am attempting to come clean with my family about my struggles, seeking a path to wellness, and found this video extremely concise and helpful. I plan to share it with anyone who may care, if it its ok with you, may cut selected highlights to include on my bipolar vlog, with commentary. Thanks so much for what you make available. You are helping me. 🙏

[@SHK188]

These are the best explanations, so practical. I'm currently seeking a diagnosis for a potential mental disorder. So much info out there that I became lost in misunderstanding. But your explanations about bipolar 1 vs. 2 vs. ADHD give a clear picture of the key differences, and have motivated to continue seeking help instead of giving up as my mood inevitably changes. God bless you!

[@marilyn3538]

Hi, thank you for that. It is concise and explains both really well. It's so true that bipolar 2 is seen as less of a struggle. It's not; like you say it tends to be chronic with a lot of depressive episodes. Thank You! I'm subscribing 😊😊

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks a lot Janice. Let me know if there's something you'd like to hear about.

[@susanmarasco7889]

Thank you for your videos. They have helped me so much in understanding what’s been going on with my 18 yr old son. Thank YOU!!! I’m a nurse and see many doctors who really care vs those who don’t and you really seem to care.

[@realprinceblue]

Dr. Tracey you are the best. I was recently diagnosed with Bi-Polar II after being diagnosed as Major Depressive for over a decade. Now I have more info. I also love that you didn’t make me feel less than because I didn’t have bipolar I. There is another video on here by another doctor that made me feel like I was less than. I love your energy and patience.

[@yeseniagarcia8461]

ive been diagnosed with depression and generalized anxiety. its been YEARS and till this day doctors havent found the right meds. i’ve switched doctors so much. ive been on Prozac lexapro xoloft paxil abilify buspar citalopram fluoxetine 1:17 i cant even think of what else anymore. this morning my doctor suggested trying mood stabilizer because i told him i cant stand being irritated and feeling pissed off anymore. i have 3 beautiful girls. love them soo much but sometimes even them just simply laughing irritates me so much. annoys me makes me mad with my husband just talk to me sometimes. ill be like this for weeeks and then finally not as irritated. its always irritated depressed or super anxious but it can never just be happy relaxed. today i start Trileptal 300mg 2 times a day while also taking Zoloft. i pray and hope this finally helps. i feel so mad sad anxious and i dont onow why when im blessed with a beautiful family. wish me luck.

[@pugmom210]

I love your videos... So informative but easy to understand! I especially liked this one because I was under the incorrect assumption that Bipolar 1 was worse than Bipolar 2. Although I'm diagnosed as a 1, I've always thought that I'm a 2, which you confirmed for me. I have instances of the euphoric hypomania as opposed to destructive mania.

[@Huskaroo15]

Hi Tracey , I've just watched the 5 signs you may be bipolar and this video. I was diagnosed with bipolar 1 a few years ago at the age of 21 after my first hospital admission. This was due to am extreme episode of mania where I was having delusions of grandiose and pretty much all of the symptoms you described. I just want to let you know that after just watching those 2 videos I understand my illness a lot more clearly. The way you present your content is easy to digest and I just wanted to thank you for making these videos, keep up the good work doc 😊 All the best.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Hi David! Thanks for the feedback, I appreciate it. It's very satisfying to hear that the videos help you understand your illness better because that's EXACTLY why I do them. I hope you continue to good help so you can stay stable and do well. This doesn't not have to hold you back from doing the things you want to do. I plan to have more videos on Bipolar disorder based on lots of questions I've gotten in the comments. If you have any suggestions, let me know.

[@janahicks8521]

I'm Bipolar one with panic and anxiety OCD and PTSD. I was diagnosed when I was 19. I really appreciate you taking your time to help inform my mental illness. Thank You So Much♡

[@ebbidibebbidiboo2640]

Your videos are so easy to understand and you explain the language used in the dsm (which is so confusing for a layperson) in such an easy to understand way and give such helpful examples of what a symptom IS and what a symptom is NOT. Thank you for making such great videos! I've always found having clear information on a topic can completely change my perspective on it and turn it from something scary into something understandable

[@rickredmond9847]

This was extremely helpful and highly informative in a way that the average person can understand. Thank you!

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks Rick. That's my goal to make it accurate, yet understandable. Thanks for watching.

[@justfun4life395]

As a person diagnosed with Bipolar Type II for 19 years, watching this video is an eye opener and I finally understand myself better. Thanks Doctor!

[@angelbumera6014]

Hi Dr. Marks. I'm so amazed how you put a complex disorder into a very simple, easy to understand way. Thank you for all your videos. Love from the Philippines.

[@claudinesteenberge4920]

I've been fighting this diagnosis for over 4 years now...but you explained it in a sense I was more able to understand.ive been in "ruts" of depression since childhood. Only took meds during those ruts, but now am cycling more often and have decided to try and stabilize it permanently..thank you so much❤️

[@maxrudin9952]

Dr. Marks, thank you so much for making this video. I recently was diagnosed with Bipolar II disorder. My psychiatrist prescribed lithium, seroquel and wellbutrin. I’ve been taking this medication for about a month and a half and I feel quite balanced. People and family members tend to underestimate the importance of bipolar II and that makes me feel like maybe I’m just being ridiculous talking about my diagnosis. After watching this video I found the necessary information for me to be more relaxed and comfortable with my disorder and it’s corresponding treatment. So thank you very much for this video !

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're welcome. I'm so glad you got clarity from it.

[@danilloelias5879]

Hello, your vids are amazing. I was first diagn. with bipolar 2, but then, i became psichose and got to a manic episode than got diagn with bipolar 1. Keep the great work.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks so much Danillo! That's so common for the diagnosis to happen like that. I hope you stay well. 🙂

[@guyh.bristowjr.6488]

Thank you so much. You make it so much easier to understand different aspects of mental disorders. Your plain , direct and clearly thought out explanations are just what the DR ordered. After being diagnosed as Manic/ Depressive 20 years ago my diagnosis was confirmed independently by 2 different mental health therapists as bi- polar 2. I had never even heard or read of bi polar 2 and I read A LOT about mental disorders. I did feel until today and your video that I was less than because #2 should have been easier for me to deal with because it wasn't as bad as someone with #1. Thank you for clearing that up and making me feel better about my struggles

[@stephaniebowers8522]

I'm thankful for these videos you make I struggle very often with my bipolar depression anxiety ptsd I do much better medicated and I'm happy these videos go in depth more for certain things that I've already noticed changes just from changing my diet. I look forward to viewing and learning more on how to help take better care of myself especially for the times I do become out of control.

[@saralfc6]

You've explained this so well. Thank you

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You’re welcome.

[@bettyallam1548]

Very informative. There are soooo many people who need help. I’m bipolar 1 and have been on medications for seventeen years now. The medication keeps me stable. I was told to never stop the medication by my psychiatrist. I need to keep med levels even in my brain or I’ll have an episode...not pleasant. Thank you Dr. marks for taking from your free time to help us understand mental health.🇨🇦

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're so welcome Betty! Generally for bipolar disorder, you don't get on and off meds - so good for you for staying on them and being stable. 🙂

[@terismesrud3701]

I wanted you to know your videos have really helped me. I am almost 65 and I was diagnosed about 23 years ago. The psychiatriste didn't really explain it to me . I had only heard of manic-depressive disorder with the much dramatic full-blown manic episodes. So recently I took a hard and honest look at myself and through some very good information on KZbin I decided that psychiatrist was right. I have started on mood stabilizer a in addition to anti-depressants. It is taking some adjustment but the ship is turning.....slowly. thanks for your eye-opening videos!

[@abbeyscheepers9751]

Thank you. I was diagnosed with bipolar type 2 today this helped a lot with understanding what I'm going through

[@user-bv5sq9dy7w]

Same, how’s it going?

[@JUDYJAKESSPECKMAN]

Thank you for these videos. You are helping me understand my 19 yo son

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Awesome. So glad to hear that. I'm open to suggestions if you have a question you want answered.

[@marionirwin7097]

Hi, Dr Tracey Marks! I always appreciate your clear and helpful KZbin videos! Thanks for all that you do. You exude a professional demeanor!

[@scottmorwitz2753]

So glad I found you! You explain things so simply and succinctly. Thank you!

[@mistycollins4384]

Thank you for this video ..it really helps to hear exactly what is happening...

[@DrTraceyMarks]

you're welcome Misty! 🙂

[@asmangis]

Definitely seems like im type 2 of bipolar.. but what can i do about it when my parents dont even believe mental health issues are real. I get called lazy and so on when im in a depressed state and even made fun of... it gets really toxic pretty quick. About 2 months ago ive noticed that i have psoriasis on my scalp and face too and im just thinking to myself that all the stress is starting to get to me. (Sorry for my grammar, english is not my first language)

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Asmangis - getting past the biases (especially when it's from your family) is extremely tough. I see a lot of people coming to a psychiatrist for the first time when they start college and can go to the doctor on their own.

[@areenadnan109]

My family is literally like yours and it’s so tough to handle

[@alexstone691]

i feel ya, im in pretty much same situation

[@Natstar_7]

asmangis oh hun I feel ur pain. My dad knows what I’ve been diagnosed with however I get the same nasty comments that I’m just a lazy ass so and so 😢 so difficult without the support! Maybe look for support groups in your area. Sending good vibes ur way 💕✌️

[@patriciafisher3108]

I am so sorry that the people in your family have no understanding of your illness. I pray that will change at some point. I am glad you found Dr. Marks channel. I am glad that I did. We both need her help and understanding of our illness. I send you my wishes that your life improves asmangis.

[@sariahadviento7936]

Thank you so much for your videos! They're so insightful and easy to understand. The way you compassionately speak about how these conditions can potentially affect individual's lives is very thoughtful. I've dated my partner for almost a year now, and she has Bipolar 1. Her two best friends have Bipolar 2. I love them all so much. And your videos are so tremendous in helping me to learn/understand even if its just a little bit their experiences with it. It really gives me more context in how I can show up and be better supporters to them when they experience really difficult times of depression and anxiety. My partner has a difficult time explaining what manic episodes and other symptoms have felt like--and this definitely helps me understand that a little more. Thank you so much for your work in educating and raising awareness to the public!

[@thinkingoutloud3358]

Thank you for this video! As a newer clinician, I continue to get mixed up with these two but your breakdown was key. Thank you again:)

[@steelyscott]

I have bipolar II and only a few years ago was correctly diagnosed and treated. The antidepressants I took made my hypomania worse and only kind of helped with my depression. Great explanation of the two, thank you for your videos!

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're welcome The Scott Sattler! I'm glad you finally got correctly diagnosed and treated.

[@aryaun]

The Scott Sattler I’m going through the same.. May I ask how it made your hypomania worse?

[@delilahkane2328]

I was diagnosed with bipolar type two in 2009- recently I “relapsed “ for lack of a better term- to be diagnosed as type 1- I have so many questions- I was in grad school for psychology but than my episodes got so bad I dropped out - I want my life back - I feel like I won’t ever be the same again

[@patriciafoster6282]

I do so appreciate your videos. I love that you explain these conditions in easily understood terms in such a calm manner. I have been in treatment off and on since 1991. But it wasn't until late 2021 that I was referred to a PA who took the time to explain what bipolar is and how my history definitely points to that. I was high functioning in my work life and thought the previous psych drs had been wrong. Plus the medications they had me on had terrible side effects. Those concerns were dismissed by drs. It wasn't until this new Dr really listened to me and was very conservative in prescribing meds that I began to finally feel better. I am now making progress in getting my life together. I am 70 and living alone but much more at peace than I have been in years. I want to thank you for your work in helping people like me who have struggled for so long trying to find out way out of the darkness. You are amazing! 👍❤️

[@khadijaaltorah7680]

I love you doctor, you don’t leave any tips or derails. Everything becomes clear as you start to speak 👌🏼👌🏼👌🏼👌🏼

[@sardarkhan7178]

I have repid cycling type 2 Bipolar With around 5-7 days of hypomania, 10-12 days of depression and around 3-4 days of normal mood in between these two.

[@soul6299]

I have bipolar type 2 and my depression is so severe and persistent I’ve had a hard time keeping my current job, and every day is a struggle. Though I also feel that because I don’t experience mania and put a lot of effort into appearing high-functioning people downplay my illness and how difficult my life is. I have no doubt that mania is horrific and destructive, but so is crippling depression. Both forms of bipolar are just as bad but in different ways, IMO.

[@lisajames8010]

Soul I completely agree. Hope you are ok xx

[@Charm2379]

Thank you!!! I am only finding your channel and videos now and am so thankful I have! I can’t watch them fast enough! Diagnosed approx 1 month ago and find your content extremely helpful, for understanding. Thanks again for all you do.

[@SuperMissblueeyes]

Thank you very much for your videos. I don't have bipolar disorder, but have had severe depression & anxiety in the past, as well as seasonal affective disorder. I've also graduated from a health & social care degree & I'm now studying for a health science degree (I have multiple chronic illnesses that leave me unable to work). I wish people didn't struggle with mental health issues, but I'm grateful to be able to learn about them to hopefully be able to help others. I have a friend in my chronic illness support group on Facebook who has bipolar disorder & listening to what you have to say will help me to support her.

[@ArtisticallyRandom]

Thank you for taking time to explain the differences. Wish my doctor (and all those in between) had watched this 30 years ago. Maybe I wouldn't have been prescribed just about every antidepressant ever invented. Maybe I would have had a proper diagnosis and been able to live a more "stable" life. It can be hard to live with and accept stability when you're not entirely sure what it is (to you, your body's reactions, and your moods)

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're welcome Artistically Random! 🤗 I hope things are much better for you now.

[@ArtisticallyRandom]

@@DrTraceyMarks some days are still a struggle, but now it's only about 15% of the days instead of 95% being a huge struggle...

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Ok, that's good reduction. But I get that the 15% is still hard.

[@carriecheung1439]

It's good for me to watch this video as my husband is suffering for the Bipolar disorder.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Glad to help Carrie. I hope he's getting help.

[@francesnelson9746]

Very helpful information for anyone trying to understand this illness. My 21 year old daughter was diagnosed a year ago w bp2 and your videos have helped me help my daughter. Thank you so much!

[@declan-kayodekeegan1598]

Hi, I've been watching your videos. It's so lovely to see profesional mental health specialist making videos such as you do.

[@Lechanan]

It really only recently came to my understanding while consulting with my PCP that my depression as I had known it could infact be bipolar ii disorder. Your video about the signs and this as well have helped me to understand it some more! I haven't tried every anti-depressant in the catalogue but the ones I'm on stop working after so long. An increase in dosage helps about a week or two. Should I get off of them and try mood stabilizers?

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Hi Lechanan. I'm glad this helped. If your PCP doesn't want to start down the mood stabilizer path, it's probably time to consult a psychiatrist. Several of them are also used for treatment resistant depression in the event that's the reason you don't get all the way better with the antidepressants.

[@sheilaboone8081]

I have bipolar2 🙏💖 and I'm So Glad I Watched this Thanks for this 🤣💖🙏

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're welcome Sheila! I have a bipolar playlist that has more videos on bipolar videos. goo.gl/1hKamL

[@logantrevino6074]

I’m currently on one psychotic Med, 2 mood stabilizers and a sleeping Med. I’m already is my 30’s and was only recently diagnosed however I’ve been in the hospital several times in my life while manic and have stayed in the hospital once 51/50. My doctor said I was undiagnosed which makes sense since I never went to a dr after an episode and only did when I was spiraling more than usual. Your videos give me a sense of understanding and make me feel less of a lost cause so thank you so much for these videos. I’ve been working on getting sleep I stay up all night but still wake up early. Thank you again!!

[@anadelrio6645]

Hi I’ve learned a lot from watching your videos. I have a son who’s been diagnose with severe anxiety, gad and bipolar 2. He suffers from mental illness. So for me these videos have helped me understand a little bit and be able to be a support system to him. Thank you

[@foofyloo]

My psychiatrist recently diagnosed me with Bipolar Disorder but literally told me to my face that she doesn't know what else she can do for me. I am in a world of voidness.

[@belle3055]

Stay strong ❤️. I believe I have bipolar disorder or borderline personality disorder but in the country where I live nobody cares about mental issues. So, I just live like nothing is happening.

[@allisonmarie6188]

Thank you so much for sharing. I was recently diagnosed with bipolar 2 and I didn't completely understand the differences between the two because my doctor was hard to understand but this was very helpful!

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're so welcome Allison!

[@Ra-zw3yb]

Dr. I LOVE YOU! It's so helpful to understand a person I love, and not blame me too much for her anger and "hate" she have towards me!

[@patrickkelly9022]

Very informative and your voice fluctuations make you a pleasure to listen to. Thanks for the great videos

[@mohamedsuneer1261]

Hi Kindly let's know what kind of jobs they can persue in their life? Is there any problem for taking lithium? What causes bipolar disorder?

[@dailyhatey1119]

This static background noise is really triggering me, OHHH GODDDD!!!!

[@teaganmacangus3974]

I was diagnosed with depression originally. A couple years ago I had one decently bad mania episode for the first time, that lasted about 2 months and finally got diagnosed with bipolar type 2, but since then I’ve had way more severe depressive episodes and only really had a couple hypomania episodes that have only lasted 1 or 2 weeks. I’ve read so much about it and thought maybe I was misdiagnosed and just had depression, but after listening to you explain type 2 it helped me understand my diagnosis so much better and know I’ve been diagnosed correctly. Thank you for your videos!

[@gamerji-li4755]

Thank you for this information! Just got my preliminary diagnosis I have bipolar disorder when I went in for an adhd test. The doctor says it's leaning more towards 2, so it helped to hear what the differences were from your video!

[@kimberlyarlynda]

Thank you so much for this video....im gonna use this to help my friends and family try to understand my illness which is bipolar II

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Excellent! I hope they understand better.

[@nytcat925]

between the years of 2016-2017 i noticed that i've had some of the b2d and it really sucks like i cant explain to the people around me what caused me gloomy and all of a sudden the next day im full of life and outgoing. its like a roller coaster like 2 months of depressive state where i became self-withdrawn and 3 months of hypermania where i became hypersexual cause by some tragic event occured in that timeline. plus, feelings of none self-worth, stress, anxiety and overthinking sprinkled on top. and by learning about this b2d i think i possibly have it. i just didnt have an official diagnosis from a psychiatrist. at the present, i keep myself occupied working out to lessen the overthinking side and have someone to remind me that i am loved. and i just kina self-medicate in a way. i still have anxieties from time to time but i think it would be great to talk to a psychiatrist to confirm this so i could clear my mind

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Hi yeddybear! I think it's a good idea to talk to someone to get some more insight on your own situation. Sometimes people can get by for a while without needing heavy duty help like medication. but if it's really bipolar disorder, the hypomanic states over time can result in greater negative consequences. You want to catch it before that happens. If you start a relationship with a doctor, even if you don't need to go to them regularly now, if that changes at some point in the future you can quickly go back to someone who has already met you and know your story. Best wishes to you.🙂

[@freedomfitness8720]

yeddybear , I’m right there with ya!

[@lesleyjames4476]

Thank you for taking the time to put out these videos. I think that it is important to realize that whatever the category we may appear to be in the consequences of having a mental illness are seriously debilitating. Trying to categorize people can be useful but the way the illness presents does not always fit a particular uniform. So clinicians would do well to be more aware of the limitations of categories. Nevertheless, your clear exposition of the various categories helps everyone to understand mental illness better.

[@chrissharkey1261]

Thank you so much doctor! Your channel is really helping so many of us that struggle with these illnesses!

[@jamescadzow9545]

I'm curious were you raised in a dysfunctional and toxic environment? Do you still have these toxic people around in your life?

[@Rach113]

Is being afraid of being drugged or poisoned a delusion? I’m so paranoid of it happening To me that it was at a point I would barely eat or take medication. I was in a carbon monoxide poisoning accident and lost my sister, so idk if it’s a ptsd symptom from that or something else. Some ppl have said it could be ocd. Some say ptsd, and one doctor said bipolar. I’m so confused. I also have really bad depersonalization, Where I feel like I’m in a dream all the time. I have high anxiety and depression.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Hi Rach113. There’s a lot going on here.😊 I can’t say for sure without having a much longer back-and-forth conversation about your history. However using broad strokes - it sounds to me like your fear is more of an overvalued idea that is a defensive reaction to your experience with your sister. You both were poisoned. That’s not the average human experience. But it is in your world. That had to be traumatic for you and I think the “paranoia” anxiety and depression are all a reaction to that experience. Even if you had depression before, that kind of intervening event can ramp up anything that you had before to the next level.

[@denisesajones]

@@bfran2283 thank you this happened with my son before he got diagnossed ,thought people was poisioning him,not even awilling too eat what i cooked ,,lots more besides.

[@coffeebeannut]

Hi, That was very helpful! My son was just diagnosed in Feb. 2018 with Bipolar I and I have ongoing mild depression. I am concerned I could also be Bipolar 2....probably not based on your video description, but I will pay attention to symptoms. He's doing great 6 months later on Lithium. I am doing well on Cymbalta, though it does wire me and cause sleep issues. I would love to make an appointment with you, if you do video consultations. What state are you in?? (I'm in CT)

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Hi Nancy. I'm glad your son is doing well. Lithium is a great drug (tried and true) but it's not always easy to take due to side effects. I've see more people get tired on Cymbalta, but everyone is different. If it wires you, it's important to take it in the morning so it doesn't interfere with your sleep. I do video sessions with established patients, BUT the patient needs to live in FL or GA. Some states are pickier than others about doctors doing telemedicine in a state where they are not licensed.

[@coffeebeannut]

Thanks so much for your reply! All the best! Thanks for helping educate the public about these treatable disorders!

[@DrTraceyMarks]

😍