Classic Bipolar vs Atypical Bipolar - How To Tell The Difference

[@DrTraceyMarks]

WATCH NEXT: *When We Use Lithium in Bipolar Disorder* kzbin.info/www/bejne/maS9k4mpZa2dapo

[@mouhsineserbouti9935]

Thank you very much .... I’m taking Prozac 50 mg ability 5 mg and Prazosin 6mg... and I’m still having panic attacks also fears .... a long list of other pains ... is this fine or not .... please let me know thank you very much Doctor

[@jennecorpuz5577]

is Bipolar Disorder a lifetime mental disorder?

[@tonyaobrien5252]

Can you do an advice for a hypochondriac panic attack because when I have one types such as focusing on breathing can act as a negative in relation to self checking. Also can hypochondriacs makes themselves feel sick as sort of a placebo effect? And are there any med recommendations?

[@MH-ys2gd]

this makes so much sense to me !!! I have alot of comorbid disorders, and i can say for sure, that while ive had depression and adhd since i was in kindergarden (or, thats when i remembered first), i for sure had my first episode with 13 ; it started out hypomanic and then transformed into a mixed/dark mania, (even delusional) and from there on i landed in the hospital, and got into a very severe depression. i could have had hypomanic episodes afterwards but i really remember the next one when i was 17, and then with 19 - very euphoric, and from there transformed again into dark mania, and lasted about a year or a half(the euphoric part only 2 months i think, now it only seems to last 2 weeks...and i dont get as euphoric anymore), and then i had my first severe depression, that lasted almost 2 years, in which i built up so much debt, cause i couldnt get out of bed anymore. i used to think the hypomanic states where my normal states for a long time, even thought it always felt rather mixed to me.

[@mouhsineserbouti9935]

@@MH-ys2gd please if you don’t mind how old are you ???? Literally I’m 40 years old.... trust me more older more pains ,.... lol not to try scary you .... I can see my self how I changed over years ????? I had all kind !!!! I get to the point just be a friend with all my dealings and my drama to survive .... I never sleep and feel safe like everyone out there ...

[@KS-bx2jf]

Girl that top is everything!

[@JustAddEmphasis]

i had to pause the video and show my mom it's beautiful!

[@ladybaabaa3294]

It sure is! I noticed it last time! 😂😍

[@Kat-lu9fq]

It really is!! ❤it!

[@heatherskib]

Seconded!

[@klaudijabozic8721]

I need that top in my life, I feel like it would cure my anxiety 😂

[@imold5363]

Doctor looking like a Queen 👑

[@tarikmounih3559]

Ur 'KZbin' name is just Hilarious, omg! 😄

[@johnhollandjr.2632]

@@tarikmounih3559 yes, what a great name... and I agree with her assessment of Dr Marks. My crush is the only reason I watch her videos. She’s beautiful, smart and funny... the best combination.

[@ashlysworld4950]

Right! She’s so beautiful & you can tell she actually takes care of herself!

[@johnhollandjr.2632]

@@ashlysworld4950 I agree... very inspiring... another reason I watch her videos. Hope she realizes how much she’s helping people.

[@johnkovary5121]

I concur

[@certified_nutzo]

My wife, who has atypical bipolar, appreciated this so much. She says she has never had a doctor explain this to her. She's even had past doctors tell her that there's no way she has bipolar because she didn't fit the classic description, so this was very validating for her. You may be our favorite person on youtube.

[@kaityladybaby]

This is so validating for me, I’m glad your wife feels the validation as well

[@bubbercakes528]

So nice that you are standing by her. My wife left me because of my bipolar disorder. I am not angry with her because of it; but it doesn’t make it any less painful. We were married 31 years.

[@wl415]

@@bubbercakes528 Sorry to hear that. I hope you feel better.

[@jessicatavi116]

I was diagnosed 15 yrs ago, and still have a hard time understanding. As I've gotten older, and have had life experiences that have changed me as a person, I start to feel like I have something different going on! One of her videos about the difference between bipolar and borderline personality helped me! I find being knowledgeable about psychology has really helped me because sometimes it can feel like I'm not being heard!

[@DibIrken]

I think I may have atypical bipolar though he says I am a bipilar type 2? I checked all the boxes for atypical. The journey to my diagnosis was rocky. They first treate with depression. The anti-depressant made me overly active and anxious so they changed it to Depression with generalized anxiety until they go to bipolar.

[@WhitePantsClub]

This made me cry. This is the first time I’ve ever felt validated. I never feel better, sometimes it’s worse and sometimes it’s better, but it’s ALWAYS there.

[@kellyberry4173]

Truth!!! Same w me. You hang in there....it gets easier as you get older!!! Much love to you ❤

[@Igor_lvanov]

Same for me. I hope you are doing well

[@miguelarbusto6556]

Literally crying as I type this because yep, same here. I never get better. I've never been well. I keep trying to explain that and people think I'm even crazier than I am. I only just learned in the past two months that you're "supposed" to have periods of recovery where you feel normal, and I was so, so, so confused by that. I am NEVER normal, not ever. It waxes and wanes, but it's like someone saying that there is supposed to be a time of the month when there is no moon in the sky. Now I know why the moon is always up there - it waxes and wanes but even when you "can't see it", it's still there.

[@beeu9841]

I understand how you put this Jargon. I get it. You have a way 🎶

[@sciencenotsrigma]

Mine is the typical type. It’s great when doctors acknowledged patterns of symptoms that are atypical, too, though. Dr. Marks is awesome! 😎 👏 ❤

[@heidiho5179]

People in my family have told me that I can’t have Bipolar Disorder cause I’m not crazy, and I would be crazy. Thanks for spreading facts about busting myths!

[@ohhiiseeyouvecometotherigh5872]

Exactly how my mom feels. She thinks I have to just get mad out of no where and start yelling and breaking stuff.

[@schmidtloveandhappiness4030]

I typically watch all your videos from my TV, but I just had to log onto my phone to leave a comment and let you know that your content is the absolute best bipolar content on KZbin from a psychiatric POV that is targeted to the individual. I cannot thank you enough for the hard work you put into creating this content. I believe that the more understanding bipolar people have of their own illness the better quality of lives we will be able to lead. Understanding leads to taking responsibility. In the way that a good parent takes the time to explain a difficult concept to a child while still validating their feelings (i.e. why it’s not good to have ice cream for every meal) you seem to be so intentional about bridging the patient/clinician gap that is such a detriment to Bipolar individuals receiving help and taking responsibility. Thank you.

[@kimmikimbels1840]

What a beautifully eloquent comment! 😊

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thank you SO much Schmidt. I really appreciate you taking the time to comment. You put my "value proposition" as some would call it, into the most beautiful words. It's gives me such satisfaction to see mission accomplished. Knowledge and understanding is the key to it all. Thanks again!! 😊❤️

[@MRA-ze2hj]

@@DrTraceyMarks what they say it’s very true, I have bipolar disorder and your content has been insanely helpful, I have learned a lot. My psychiatrist is great but wow you are amazing. I can’t thank you enough for the information, education and my God the resources! I couldn’t believe that by subscribing to your electronic mailing list I would get free work sheets and tips on how to manage and cope. From the bottom of my heart I sincerely thank you. You are improving my and many people’s lives. 🤍

[@martavera7882]

I so agree!!!..

[@vincec.202]

Well said and full of truth!❤💯👏👏👏

[@rufusbayne2230]

I wasn't diagnosed until I was 48. Before then my life was a constant struggle. I moved from school to school, job to job and city to city. Cycles of mania and depression would destroy any progress I made. I had heard relatives mention my Grandfather had problems. So, I did some research. I found that he went into one of the state's mental hospitals in 1928. He remained there until his death in 1960. His diagnosis was manic-depressive disorder. At first I was furious. If my family knew this why couldn't they put two and two together? My attitude quickly changed when I realized how tragic his life must have been. I never met him but I feel so much compassion and empathy for him. It brings me to tears. Just like right now....

[@Heatherlambertofficial]

Does anyone ever start typing only to realize (an hour later) that your whole life story was just written in a KZbin comment.... then you just erase it all?? 🤦🏼‍♀️ Asking for a friend.... 😆

[@grandexporter]

All the time... People crave interactión with one another, and what we are really doing when we blurt our life story out to strangers is looking for someone to tell us how to fix our lives.. I had and have some serious complicactions in my life and used to do this.. Tell everything to anyone but i found its also dangerous... There are People out there who use that personal information to get leverage on you, or take advantage... So you have to be careful who you trust with personal info

[@samanthahardy9903]

Yep. It happens a lot!

[@Jademoon25]

I didnt erase mine LOL

[@yourbffnat3602]

Uh, nope... never... nada.... 🤐 Actually yes!! 🤪

[@theamaturepro]

Multiple times, every day. Same with texts. I go to message someone and before I send I decide it's stupid and erase it. On KZbin though, I ramble on and on and end up embarrassing myself later on.

[@notmyproblem9345]

I'm atypical bi-polar and ADHD and wasn't diagnosed until I was 34 (now 42) and I've found your vids to be of far more help than any doctor I've seen in the UK. Thank you, you've made a positive difference in my life.

[@stephanieh5478]

I too suspect I have ADHD (inattentive type) my psychiatrist is currently giving me mood stabilizers to see how I feel but I’m thinking of also getting tested for ADHD..

[@jackiemcdonell1737]

​@@stephanieh5478Hi Stephanie, I realize we all metabolize meds differently, do you mind sharing which mood stabilizer your trying, how long you've been taking it & it's effects so far? I highly recommend getting tested for adhd. I was diagnosed around 35 or 37 I'm 47 now game changer for me when I started adderall xr. I think I am atypical bipolar also but not sure bc it could just be the side effects of unnecessarily being prescribed 3 different SSRI'S throughout the span of the last 30 yrs that didn't help with my undiagnosed adhd symptoms. Prior to the adhd diagnosis I was diagnosed with PMDD they said just extreme PMS🤣. I believe it would affect any womans cycles to go thru them while suffering Emotional Disregulation concurrently! I took the genesight test & found out SSRI'S are in my "not recommended column" go figure. The test is supposed to be HIPAA protected unlike the DNA test advertised everywhere.

[@jackiemcdonell1737]

​@@stephanieh5478I 4got to mention birth control oral pills for about 17yrs. Those things will surely mess a lot up.

[@Kayla-jy2eh]

I love your videos. My father has schizophrenia and I have bipolar disorder. We often sit together on some mornings and watch your videos because it is so educational and you are so thorough. A lot of what you go over, we both identify with. It gives us hope because living with mental illness is beyond being difficult. I wish more psychiatrists could explain things how you do and be so personable.

[@adinglancy9880]

I have NEVER had this explained to me by any medical professional, ever. I just emailed this video to my therapist. This describes how my bipolar 2 has felt for years. Thank you.

[@in-serenesanity4514]

Dr Tracey, what I particularly appreciate about your videos (apart from their condensed yet very clear and not overloading content and thoroughly thought-through design) is that you gracefully manage to stay away from any emotional enmeshment in the topics you educate us about. I imagine you have had all sorts of emotional reactions to and experiences with your patients with various issues, yet your presentations stay unpolluted, neutral but not 'blank slate' at the same time. Very well done, a very nice balance that I don't see much on the net, even amongst high professionals. Respect and appreciation.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks so much In Sanity. I spend quite a bit of time thinking through the design to make the info digestible. I appreciate you noticing that and the unpolluted nature of them. 😊

[@bradleybatista6460]

Much agreed! Thank you Dr. Marks ^_^

[@melodieneil712]

THANK YOU Dr. Mark’s. I was diagnosed 20 years ago, and have never had any of this explained to me. I’m grateful that you’ve taken the time to clarify the differences between classic and atypical as well as the medications involved with treatment. Now that I have a better understanding of atypical bipolar, I can have a more productive conversation with my health care provider about my treatment. I appreciate you taking your time to create these videos. They truly are a gift.

[@trippscharrer9897]

Being someone who matches all the traits of atypical, it is really rough knowing that I may never feel how I felt when I was “normal” or without bipolar.

[@chillie000]

I’m so sorry to hear that. Were you a kid when it kicked in?

[@madsin6516]

Painfully so, I wonder if my life is worth living too often

[@sciencenotsrigma]

Yeah, that has got to be extremely hard to face. I remember feeling like myself again, after 26 years, when I first took lithium. I wasn’t aware that there were people who responded differently, although I kind of assumed, because my physical illness doesn’t always respond to the drugs that help most people with allergies and asthma, so I can certainly imagine it would be the same way with mental illness. I have a hard time with some doctors wanting to put me on what I feel is too much lithium, because I do respond to lower doses well, but higher doses give me nausea and fatigue. I know some people say you don’t have bipolar disorder if you get fatigue with lithium. but it’s also said that people who respond well to lower doses are more likely to have an accurate diagnosis and I fit all the criteria, so I am confused by some of the literature and differing opinions. I guess all we can do is try to be as well as we can, regardless of the odds or opinions . I hope you are able to find an effective therapy! ❤

[@that1person695]

This explains so much for me! Despite being diagnosed with bipolar disorder, I always doubted I had it. Because my mania always started out dark and scary. I thought maybe it was my Bpd. I never did well on the generic medicine they use for bipolar disorder. When she mentioned the medicine that works better for atypical bipolar- it was the exact medicine that I take now that works for me. I'm so glad someone brought light to this topic!

[@xrdmx893]

I was just diagnosed with Bipolar I a month ago after a voluntary psychiatric hospital stay. They started me on Depakote + Seroquel and it’s been a month and I feel back to my (pre-manic) old self. I specifically asked to be taken off of the Haldol & Effexor combo they started me on during the first night that sent my brain to such a low, lethargic and sad state the following day that I excused myself from therapy, didn’t want to shower or eat but couldn’t sleep. Once they discarded those meds and started me on the Seroquel I specifically asked for (I had it for a very short time years ago), the rest of my stay felt like a walk in the park. I fully fit into the atypical presentation and I wasn’t even aware that it existed. Thanks, Dr. Marks. Your videos were the ones who made me realize I carried a few disorders long before diagnosis.

[@aymeemouse]

Super informative!! I apparently have atypical bipolar disorder. I was diagnosed with Type 1 with mixed states, plus OCD, when I was 19, and Depakote has severely reduced my mania. They initially had a hard time diagnosing me because I've never had a "pure" depressive state, but had mania often and almost never slept 😕

[@jongalla6017]

I'm a med student interested in psychiatry and I find these videos really helpful for clarifying concepts / learning new things!

[@armandos3022]

Awh that’s good buddy !

[@leahpatterson6227]

Wow. I have been recently diagnosed with bipolar. I have been so confused and distraught trying to see the symptoms for myself. Atypical explains to me so well. I can't thank you enough.

[@andreacampbell103]

Your video spelled out my life as someone with atypical bipolar ii. When my second therapist described my bipolar that way, I thought she was just explaining why it was so difficult for me to get a diagnosis and why I left my first therapist. I was not aware that this was a clinical term and this video (and others you have done) is helping me understand and come to terms with my diagnoses. These last few years have been hard. I don't use your videos as medical advice, but you do help clarify my understanding of the medical care I am receiving, and that is important.

[@Nyx_x33]

Oh my god. Thank you SO MUCH for this explanation. I was diagnosed a few years ago with Bipolar II, but none of this was ever explained to me. Hypomania wasn't even explained to me, so I'm about to dive into your other videos and see what else I can learn. This is so validating and helpful and I can't thank you enough.

[@vincec.202]

As always, your channel is a great place for information, and it's always appreciated. I feel frankly disgusted with the state of mental healthcare in this country. Just under 50% of adults will have an issue with mental health that requires the help of medical professionals in their lifetime, yet still the stigma, which is attached to ignorance(the act of willfully researching nothing, and regurgitating everything that they've been told by people who also have done zero research, with both parties refusing to accept scientifically proven facts). The reason being, in my experience, is that there are an appalling number of people in the mental health field who seem to stop researching new information and either feel no obligation to educate their patients or simply treat their patients as if they don't have the capacity to understand and accept information about their disorder or illness, or frankly DO NOT CARE about their patients, and work in the field for reasons that are more selfish than selfless. It's pretty bad when I know more about my disorders and the kinds of treatment and medications available than a therapist and have often had to question and inform both psychologists and psychiatrists(those that care enough to listen that is). It's the most hopeless and defeating feeling in the world, and for people like myself with severe depression and grief related disorders, it's sometimes the reason we simply give up and give in.

[@angelaalvarez3491]

That's what I like so much about this Dr. She speaks so we can understand.

[@sarahaltizer2285]

Definitely classic type 1 here! Lithium has made SUCH a difference for me…was the first one after 22 meds that actually helped me. SNRIs help with my depression (stay away from ssri! They make me manic!) and seroquel helps me sleep when I’m manic to help mitigate symptoms. Every 5 years I have to change up a bit, or add something. Just added lamictal a month ago and it’s helped stabilize the mania cuz I hadn’t been below hypomanic in months. Started as BPD, suicidal depression, mood swings in my late teens…then I was on heroin for 10 years, which I think made it worse. Got clean 7 years ago and after a year without meds (rehab tells you you don’t need them) I wound up in the psych ward and finally started down the path of treatment and recovery. However, my bipolar is a whole new beast now. Mania that lasts months…it’s miserable and completely debilitating. 😕

[@adinaglorioso9084]

I am Atypical. It has never been explained to me in such a clear and easy to understand way! I wish I had understood this years ago! Thank you!!

[@francisknobel8307]

No one ever explained it so good to me I have been diagnosed since the age of 19 but it started much sooner

[@AgxntAqua]

This video is going to genuinely help me move forward. For a long time I struggled with my diagnosis exactly because I never fit the classic bi-polar criteria. Particularly during my darker episodes, I would/will convince myself there's nothing wired wrong, and I'm just weak and pathetic and undeserving of normalcy. It also explains why I never quite feel like I am "normal" and only "between episodes". There are plenty of resources available on bi-polar but none of them ever seem to do any more than a passing mention of the atypical version. Appreciate it immensely doc.

[@pixieyoga2898]

i'm 20 years old and was diagnosed bipolar 2 disorder at 17 almost 18; the age of onset at around 13 or 14, but when i was a child around 12 - 13 i was diagnosed with OCD, until about 14 years old the ocd symptoms just stopped and i spiraled into a dark dark depression and then the mood swings came on. i get hypomania and its normally agitation and dysphoria with being extremely goal oriented and i'm extremely creative, i just recently made so many connections for my own business i'm going to do and i fell off of school, and i've just recently quit it all. whenever i get depressed again it feels like its the worst thing, ti feels like ive never been this depressed. but when i'm hypomanic, i cant ever remember why i was depressed, its like i cant even fathom being so sad. but when im depressed it gets so bad that i get into this pit where i hear a voice telling me i should kill myself or like its hopeless, so i cant even keep a job or keep school going! the hypomania lasts from just under a month to three months, while my depressions lasts for a month to half a year. and then my recovery bounces back and i'm stable for like a month or two or three or four. and i get a full recovery. i have about 2 - 4 episodes a year, but i was never diagnosed with the 'rapid cycling' course specifier because during a hypomanic state i quit all therapies and medications last year. i responded very well to abilify and lamictal. really hard to live with so far. i'm not sure what to do. the people around me tend to invalidate me a lot and i'm black, so for most old school parents in the black community,they don't really believe in 'mental illnesses' or believe we should go to doctors, and my mom just think i 'grew out of it' and 'grew out of the depression', and that i'm just 'goign through life.' its exhausting.

[@Heatherlambertofficial]

Girrrrl... Everything you just wrote was like reading my own biography!

[@anonanon7553]

I have a sort of similar story. I think I used to have OCD, but it went away and now I get crazy mood swings. Idk what's wrong. I've never been diagnosed with anything a I don't think I fit any diagnoses so I'm just confused

[@yeranishunor]

How were you diagnosed at 17 with BP 2? That's so young. People aren't usually diagnosed until they reach their 20s. How could a psychiatrist know that your symptoms were indicative of BP 2 when you are still a teen? You are lucky. I wish psychiatrists took more time with their patients.

[@utterlunacy]

I have finally found relief in understanding myself from this video. Thank you, omg. I never dealt with the classic form so I felt so alone in everything goes on with myself

[@TerriDionne]

I needed this!! I was recently diagnosed with bipolar and I just knew I didn’t have bipolar fr… but I understand more now.

[@TerriDionne]

Kind of want to cry about this, idk why but it just all makes sense now. I was so convinced I wasn’t bipolar

[@knittedwarbler]

Please elaborate about how atypical bipolar would look in the day to day life compared to "typical" bipolar 1 and 2; and how atypical mania with irritable/dysphoric presentation compares to euphoric mania. This video is extremely fascinating to me and it's very difficult for me to find more info online about atypical bipolar, so I and I'm sure many more would greatly appreciate it. Thank you for the consistently high-quality content! You're my favourite youtube psychiatrist :)

[@t5aylor]

This is so very clear, thank you Dr Marks. I have atypical bipolar disorder but have never seen it described so well.

[@denise1746]

Dr. Tracey, yet again, another incredibly informative and highly organized video from you. I want you to know that my son is doing very well and my whole family is much healthier and happier. Myself and my other son went in to counseling to help my youngest...I know you don't pick a sick person out of the family and expect them to get all fixed up. This is all because of you. There are no fears, no mysteries, no misinformation and worry. Your empathy, wisdom and knowledged words has given us empowerment and tools to use! The warmest regards and only the best for you and yours!! Respectfully, Denise

[@Coconuty97]

I needed this video this week. My therapist told me this week that she ruled out MDD (which I was diagnosed with at 15) and are looking into bipolar disorder. She’s my second option and after another therapist said I had bipolar 2. This makes me feel so much hope because I relate to all of this, especially Atypical. I deal with what I believe are mixed episodes once to twice a year, and deal with a lot of depression and anxiety. My baseline is always a bit depressed and anxious. All that you discussed in the video truly resonated with me and made me feel seen and understood, even though you’re not even my doctor. It just makes me so glad that there’s people like you talking about this.

[@maeganevans9463]

I can't thank you enough. I have cPTSD, and Bipolar II. I am definitely cyclothymic but working on it. Your videos allow me to have a better understanding of myself. I am expecting my first child (at 34!) And the more I can understand myself, the better I can parent a child, and also be aware of warnings signs of this often inherited disorder. We can break generational curses, but not without understanding and hard work. Thank you for making it just a little easier.

[@thesilverlining1237]

I really appreciate your videos. You have helped me understand my disorder a lot better than when I was diagnosed. Thank you.

[@RamonGarcia-ix6gf]

Thank you Dr. Marks! As a clinician/colleague, I love the info you share and the clear message solid to get away from the jargon the field uses. Also, it may not be your intention but, seeing a fellow Person of Color be able to share their knowledge, skill and craft is so uplifting for me!

[@Jaydenzephyr]

This video gives me so much clarity and makes me feel validated. Thank you.

[@marijanina]

you're seriously amazing for explaining these in simple, easy-to-understand terms!! ❤️

[@oliviahaley1611]

I feel so validated and seen. This highlights my Atypical Bipolar affective disorder, thank you.

[@VStaskey]

This is the best description of my untreated mental state. I’ve been very stable for quite a number of years, and am nonetheless relieved to be offered such a perfect description of my symptoms. Dr. Tracy Marks never fails to enlighten and explain. I’ll be a therapist in a matter of months and I’ve learned so much from her that I can share with my future clients. Well do everything, Dr. Marks!

[@DrKimSage]

💕Love how you break this down, and respectfully and compassionately explain! 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@edwardgrigoryan3982]

It sounds like it would be particularly difficult to distinguish atypical bipolar disorder from borderline personality disorder, and this is further complicated by a higher rate of comorbidity of BD and BPD with atypical bipolar. Thanks for organizing all of this information so well. I have no doubt that your videos have assuaged much suffering and have likely even saved some lives.

[@cameronross9376]

I feel so validated. We know I have bipolar 2, but it isn’t classic. It’s for sure atypical. So it’s very validating to know that atypical bipolar is actually a thing! And it’s me :)

[@addysaw]

Suddenly I feel like I can graduate in psychiatry from KZbin University 😁😂

[@juachem5509]

Thank you for that video ! I'm bipolar (atypical) and I often a hard time explaining how it works. A lot of people don't believe me until they see my medication and all of a sudden, I take too much of it..... Tiring... Recently I had a mixed episode, worst experience ever... I saw myself litterally acting crazy and couldn't stop it. I had terrible suicidal thoughts... Thank god, it's over ❤️

[@eirlyseverett9095]

I cannot stress how much this helps me understand myself better ;-; I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder but atypical was never really explained to me in this easy to digest way thank you so much!

[@snoozaroo]

So helpful in explaining to family members! Keep doing the good work, it has helped me and so many others not only cope but express ourselves to others. Thank you for all you do

[@SpokenEnglishSriLanka]

Thank you so much dear Doctor. I'm from Sri Lanka. Now I know what I have had for sure. It's atypical bipolar + OCD + GAD Please give me a heart here doctor.

[@tsuritsa3105]

Thank you for this. It clarified for me that my presentation is atypical. I have used lithium as well as depakote, although now that I have developed epilepsy the depakote is kind of the go-to in order to treat both conditions at once. I really appreciate all the work you are doing to bring clarity to symptoms and actions that can help someone like me take as much control of my life around this illness as possible. I find that the more I do that the more I can forgive myself for things that are sometimes out of my full control as the result of episodes.

[@jeanlewis9581]

Such great videos. This one hits home like crazy. I was diagnosed BP1 in 2007 after a major episode and 20 years of “textbook BP” as three nationally known psychiatrists described it. It was a year of trial and error with meds. Ended up usually taking 900mg Lithium and 1500mg Depakote. I was a very stubborn come-and-go patient. Insurance kept dropping my p-doc and adding him back, I was “cured” yada yada. Last year, after no meds or caring or thinking anything worked, I found a new doctor. I had 10+ years of all my medical treatment, prescriptions, diagnoses codes. Very well informed here! He explained to me that it sounded like the major mania that culminated with 2007 didn’t seem present anymore- that I describe mixed episodes at all times. He said that Lithium is classically for classic mania, can help with depression. I basically came to this recommended doctor after several years of doing nothing and fear of being lectured by previous doctor haha, and just wanting to get back on the meds I was on. He told me that he wanted to try no lithium now- that Depakote is better for mixed episodes whereas lithium is more for mania which he felt that 13 years later (23 vs 40), I may be a mixed episode case, and also lithium requires the blood work every 90 days and he’s generally a supporter of the less meds possible the better. It’s been a few months on just the Depakote and I also take Seroquel which I have since 2007 if I want to sleep- my entire life since I can remember being conscious, I sleep 90 minutes a day tops. My whole life. Nothing in the world has ever helped me sleep except the seroquel, and even then that’s IF I take it. Thank you for this video I particular - some of it I find myself in both categories? So I’m still confused. But I also understand what a complicated thing this is. I’d love to hear anyone’s comments!

[@emanzeekhan]

I love Dr. Traceys videos, they really help me understand my diagnosis so much better

[@caitlincassidyy]

I’m shocked. I’m diagnosed with bipolar 1 (though a different doctor once diagnosed me with bipolar 2 years ago) and had no idea that “typical and atypical” bipolar disorder was a thing. Almost everything you said about atypical bipolar disorder applies to me! And I take an antipsychotic a mood stabilizer. This was so interesting. All of your content is excellent. I can tell you are someone who really cares.... keep it up! PS your top in this video is awesome lol.

[@julie1630]

What a very educated clear speaking doctor. I listen to you and appreciate what you do

[@tarikmounih3559]

I like how u bring smthin that it's not on a Book, but by experience! 💪🏾

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks Tarik!

[@tarikmounih3559]

@@DrTraceyMarks u wlcm Deary🙂

[@brianarbenz7206]

Very helpful and clear. You include a lot of in-depth information in a short video. And it's all the work of a pro, not these zealots who promote self-diagnosing.

[@KristenBowers]

Wow- I can’t express enough how much I appreciate your videos and you are by far the best at explaining than anyone else I have talked to or watched. I am currently trying to help someone ( and their family) with this disease. Your calm, thorough, and extremely clear and fluid way of explaining is invaluable. Thank you Dr. Marks!!!

[@moyagreene9590]

Thank you Dr. Marks for these very clear informative video’s. As a parent of an adult child diagnosed at 15 with BiPolar 2 , I try to educate myself regularly and your videos are the best I have found. Your knowledge, patience and clarity are greatly appreciated and you have set the bar for your profession.

[@carolinejames9053]

I HAVE to say that I SO appreciate your video. I quite literally was confused about why my experience of bipolar was different and not well represented/reflected in most bipolar conversations. Thank you for making this video.

[@paulkovacs5729]

I currently take Lamotrigine daily for Bipolar 2 and it works great for me. My presentation has some classic and some atypical features. I also take propranolol as needed for situational anxiety (maybe only a couple times a month)

[@criktar7579]

I never had my doctor explain my bipolar diagnosis to me. They gave me lamotrigine and that was it. Now I FINALLY understand

[@DibIrken]

I watch the full ad because I treat it as a fee for getting this information. Let's support Dr. Marks. 🙏 She is helping a lot of people understand their illness and also make other people understand what we go through.

[@MrSnysokk]

Thank you so much Dr.Marks! Nobody ever told me this and it makes alot of sense and cleared many things up. I am definetly an atypical bipolar, and have many times been told that I have an odd version of bipolar that doesnt necessarily fit the description making me uncertain. The concept of lingering symptoms seem to explains much better what ive been told was not understandable rapid cycling of mild symptoms. Mixed episodes and co-morbidity explains it all. This is very valuable educational tv. One week with your videos has given me more than years in the system. Thumbs up indeed 👍 I am going to watch it again.

[@honeycovin9665]

Thank you for this video. I am a psychiatric advance practice nurse and I learned something from this video.

[@djcosmickate3704]

i'm so thankful for these educational videos. there's a lot i want to learn about my disorders, and the time you spend in the office of a psychiatrist is just never enough to ask everything. so thank you for delivering clear, concise, and direct information; we need it

[@TheRawChuck]

Thank you, Doctor. I need to watch this again just before my next visit with my own Dr. When last she and I spoke, she mentioned that I presented with clear symptoms of Bipolar. When I saw the title of this video I knew I had to watch. Every single Dr. I've seen has said that I clearly have Bipolar but I was never diagnosed until I went to see a psychiatrist on my own in my early twenties. I've had this since childhood and it seems even much earlier than ten. If my folks had taken me to get checked out I might have graduated high school. There is a lot of Bipolar in both sides of my family but also a lot of denial.

[@wanidisplace1480]

I can relate.

[@suzanbrowning3980]

Thank you , thank you.. Im 55 years old and all my years of treatment.. know body has every broke this down for me!!!

[@mattywood7294]

Thank you so much for posting mental health education videos. Everytime I watch your videos (especially on BD) I have found that I have been giving myself more grace after and during episodes. Thank you for everything you do. You are a beautiful light for many of us.

[@stellamarisretamal4690]

I'm so thankful for your videos, your explanations, it's very enlightening. Everything you've disclosed so far about bipolar disorder rings very true to my experiences, which is a relief. After hypomania episodes I tend to think I made it all up, or, if I get depressed right after an episode, I used to think I was becoming lazy instead of recognising the symptoms of a depressive episode. Thank you so much, Dr Tracey!

[@videlsol]

I really love your content ❤ I was diagnosed with bipolar dysorder some months ago and it's been a journey. Mu psychiatrist mentioned that maybe I am part of this atypical bipolar disorder and for some time I was very confused because 1)bipolar itself is not very known apart of the most common synthoms and 2) like on the video, there's no official separation between the "regular" and the atypical bipolar. So for me, discovered this channel was a blessing and very helpful in my process of discover more about my past episodes and for self-educatiom about the disease. Thank you so much (and I'm sorry if I made a mistake, i'm from Chile so english it's not my first language)

[@TheKnetsie]

I am so grateful for your videos. This one hit completely home again, just like the one on the difference of unipolar and bipolar depression (which set me off in the right direction diagnosis-wise) and the one on border polar. Like it's getting clearer and clearer. You have helped me so much, more then my regular psychiatrist actually. So thank you again and keep m coming 😘

[@erisenigma]

Thank you for helping me understand my diagnosis with atypical bipolar disorder. I feel so validated and understood

[@patrician3821]

I wish it was known when I was 15 and got ill. I spent 30 years until I was diagnosed with atypical bipolar and started depakote, lamotrigine and aripiprazole. Now despite the remaining symptoms and losses ( failed marriage, failed career, bankruptcy) in the last 5 years I have been able to slowly build my life again. I hope everyone who has this sad disease be diagnosed and have access to treatment because it can save your life in so many ways

[@miguelarbusto6556]

Once again, Dr. Marks comes through to give me the words to explain myself. Thank you so much, doc.

[@crystaltabor431]

Thank you so much for all of your informative videos & expertise. I am 43 years old. I have been dealing with bipolar since I was probably about 16 or so. (just to a much lesser degree which was much less disruptive but also undiagnosed). After struggling and suffering for many many years, I was finally diagnosed with bipolar in 2005, but it was not until last year that my new psychiatrist identified it as Bipolar 2 with atypical features. I finally felt less alone. All those years, I didn't really understand why i didn't quite match the textbook patterns. But, when he explained this to me, I cried. I guess I just felt finally understood..I guess? I still struggle A LOT. In fact, I am really struggling tonight. But, I called my dr. and have an appt. tomorrow, thankfully. To any young people out there reading this, yes, it's a lifelong thing for many of us, but it is possible to find the right diagnosis, the right medication & therapy..and support to live a pretty good life. My symptoms come & go and very fast but I have learned over time how to either adjust myself to bounce back more quickly or at least to trust myself to reach out when I am feeling out of control. You can too. My life has been pretty successful and mostly happy-ish, even with this, and I hope the same for you. Don't give up. Life is still worth living, even with this rollercoaster ride.

[@Marcelube]

Thank you, good doctor. You're the best teacher on the topic in the internet! Such a complex syndrome, so hard to detect, understand and treat. Yes, I've never learned so much than with. God bless you.

[@kimmikimbels1840]

Thank you for this video! Very informative. I was diagnosed with bipolar type 2 yesterday and it's good to know more about it! Please keep doing these videos ☺️

[@cd4536]

I have classic Bipolar and I have always had the best results with lithium. I was taken off of it because I got pseudo tumor cerebri and for about six years I tried different medications and nothing worked or I got bad side effects. I am back on it now and have been mostly stable for five years. I never heard that classic bipolar responds better to lithium. I was told that it helps with suicidality. I did develop pseudo tumor cerebri again, but it's being followed by neuropthamology and isn't severe enough that I need to stop it. There are a few of the thing you list that are different for me. I don't have any relatives with mental illness, my age of onset was around ten years old and I also have Autism. Another great video! Thank you.

[@gthktty666]

omg finally someone who fucking understands bipolar!!!! somehow no professional i've seen has heard of atypical bipolar because i'm a textbook fit, i've been on the bipolar rollercoaster since 13/14, and no one would give me an official diagnosis (or treatment) til i was 21. thank you sm for making this video.

[@jessicamann2401]

From word go she described me. Thanks for the knowledge and making me aware that I’m atypical.

[@dez6278]

This information is so helpful. I read it about 15 years ago and haven't seen it like this again. I'm atypical/type 2. There's a great list I saw on KZbin years ago that described things bipolar people do sometimes and I'd love to find it again. It was spot on like the list you have here (which I screenshot) and noted unexplainable things I did, like trouble grooming, buying 20 of the same thing but with tiny variations (like candles, lipsticks, etc), always keeping my receipts because I returned so many things later. It would be great to have that list to show my family those things are not intentional and would help so many people here.

[@drhust1955]

I might be more atypical but rarely have rapid cycling. Also have anxiety disorders. Thanks for the info. You always look so pretty.

[@jddominguez17]

I’ve heard of these terms but never knew the difference. Thanks for the explanation.

[@kellyberry4173]

Well done Dr. Everyone w this in their family live hard. Thank you....people need to understand this! Again, WELL DONE!

[@gabrielleasdfghjkl5539]

I’ve been diagnosed with atypical bipolar. For over a decade I had severe insomnia and I had no idea it was due to being manic. I knew it was due to poor mental health but what confused me is that I was never feeling negative emotions when I couldn’t sleep. Ironically it was always when I was feeling my most optimistic. When I learnt it was because of mania everything made sense. I started taking antidepressants and mood stabilisers a few months ago for the first time and in the first time in years I can finally sleep properly

[@LatuVT]

Wow this clarified my diagnosis to by atypical! I didn't even know there was a difference. I wish a doctor had taken the time to explain this to me. Thank you for this video!

[@gamerji-li4755]

Just got diagnosed with bipolar disorder, they are still trying to decide whether it is 1 or 2, but leaning towards 2. I also relate more towards the atypical version you mentioned. Thanks for the information!

[@Morning.star520]

I am student in the medical school and i learn a lot with your channel and explanations! Thanks, Dr.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

That's great. You'll be ahead of the curve in the mental health space 😀 All the best

[@simplementexenia]

Thank you Dr. Tracey Marks! I’ve watched many of your videos and I could understand everything you’ve talked about in this one! I’m not a psychotherapist and my native language is Russian. You’re such a good speaker and I’ve learned a lot from your videos! It helps me to understand my bipolar disorder and people with mental illnesses in general

[@DJPoundPuppy]

I feel very seen. I was misdiagnosed for 15 years because I didn't go on massive shopping sprees and I was able to sleep with anemia. Now, after being diagnosed I invalidate myself. Thanks for reminding me that this is real. I can have more than one disorder. My symptoms are real!

[@peaceindarkness.darknessis3494]

The information you provided in this video has never been explained to me through all my years of treatments. The atypical aspect explains so much to me now. Thank you Dr. Tracy.

[@j.ahlberg2058]

My daughter passed away. In 2022. (38) Her death certificate says bipolar, thyroid, possible heart attack. I like listening to you. I was/ am so confused. She was on litium and at one time methadone.

[@liatesta44]

i was diagnosed with bipolar 2 and have all of the atypical symptoms (i never knew they were i thing, thank you!) and i believe i have agoraphobia, as i have a lot of trouble leaving my house and i’m just so scared to loose my life. i’m only 16 and i wish i didn’t have to wonder if i’m going to wake up in the hospital some day.

[@ErinBrookes]

I have the same thing as you. Bipolar 2 and agoraphobia. Hugs. It’s really hard but we are doing the best we can ❤️

[@user-wt6hw5mi5q]

I wish you the best. I was misdiagnosed with depression at 16. I have bipolar. I'm now 32, and I desperately wish I received the right diagnosis at the time. Could have saved me a lot of hardship. I isolated for 2 years and dropped out of school. My fear of leaving the house was intense. I truly hope you are able to break free sooner than that. Having the correct diagnosis is a win... Although it won't be a bed of roses. Again, best wishes to you.

[@liatesta44]

@@user-wt6hw5mi5q thank you, genuinely!

[@Sharon-sw7mr]

Dr. Tracey Marks, you have helped my life very much. You help me understand my mental illnesses. Thank you. I am always telling people with questions about their mental illnesses, "Just watch Dr. Tracey Marks video on that and then you will understand."

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Awesome Sha Sha. So glad to hear this. Stay well! 😊

[@alisongoeller8461]

Thank you, these things can be so confusing and you bring clarity 💖

[@DrTraceyMarks]

So glad!

[@sandeepSingh-bs4cl]

@@DrTraceyMarks I feel sad , demotivated no happiness mood for 6-7 days then came back to normal is i am bipolar or this is something else

[@muffingurl911]

My PCP scoffed at the idea of atypical Bipolar and told me that it doesn't exist... insurance won't accept me as Bipolar because I'm a typical a d makes me wonder if I'm even Bipolar. This is seriously validating. Thank you!

[@haydengikwiyakare3495]

This has been extremely amazing, helpful, and educational. 🙏🏾

[@ornellabarbaro3861]

Could never figure out what was wrong with me. I'm in my later years of my life and now I'm so tired of being misdiagnosed or partly diagnosed. Thank you Dr. Tracy. My head is about to explode with all this information but it's helped me understand what's going on. My physiatrist miss quit a bit with his diagnosis. Listening to your blogs I realised this. So many unanswered question and underlining issues you're answered. I wish I had a Doctor like you. I feel like my frustration and illness would have been much much better years ago. Hence having some sort of quality of life. Now let's see if my rushed and uncaring physiatrist will actually listen to me or he'll keep saying " I can't do anything for you." Thank you Dr. Tracy.

[@elizabethwilk9615]

I have a son who has been misdiagnosed. It’s truly sad to bounce from doctor to doctor and you realized you wasted money and time and that a doctor on KZbin can explain things clearly. Thank you !

[@jeffkeighley432]

Thanks for this. No one seems to talk about this. 10 years ago you couldn't find anything on this. If you could, it didn't make any sense.

[@jesusdiscipledon1499]

Thank you Dr. Marks. Your videos are always very helpful in helping me find new and rediscovering old insights.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Wonderful! Learning is always a good thing. 😊