[19F] Experiencing severe mood swings and related symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, there are a few potential conditions that could be contributing to your mood swings and other symptoms:

1. Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD):

   • Rationale: BPD is characterized by intense mood swings, fear of abandonment, impulsive behaviors, and unstable relationships. The rapid shifts in mood, from depression to anxiety to anger, and the pattern of idealizing and devaluing others are common in BPD.
   • Typical Treatments: Treatment often includes psychotherapy, such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which focuses on teaching coping skills to manage emotions, reduce self-destructive behaviors, and improve relationships. Medications may also be prescribed to manage specific symptoms.

2. Bipolar Disorder:

   • Rationale: Bipolar disorder involves mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). The rapid cycling between different mood states you described could be indicative of this condition.
   • Typical Treatments: Treatment usually involves a combination of medications (such as mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants) and psychotherapy to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

What you can do

Mood Swings and Emotional Instability:

• Seek Professional Help: It's important to consult with a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, who can provide a formal diagnosis and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
• Therapy: Consider starting therapy, particularly Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which can help you develop coping strategies and manage your emotions more effectively.
• Medication: If prescribed by a healthcare provider, medications can help stabilize your mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. It's important to use medications as directed by a professional rather than self-medicating.

Fear of Abandonment and Relationship Issues:

• Therapeutic Support: Therapy can help you understand and address the underlying causes of your fear of abandonment and improve your relationships with others.
• Support Groups: Joining a support group for individuals with similar experiences can provide a sense of community and understanding.

Suicidal Ideation and Impulsive Thoughts:

• Immediate Help: If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, it's crucial to seek immediate help. Contact a crisis hotline, go to the nearest emergency room, or reach out to a trusted person in your life.
• Safety Plan: Work with a mental health professional to develop a safety plan that includes coping strategies and emergency contacts.

General Well-being:

• Healthy Lifestyle: Engage in regular physical activity, maintain a balanced diet, and ensure you get enough sleep. These can all contribute to better mental health.
• Mindfulness and Relaxation: Practices such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help reduce stress and improve emotional regulation.

Tracking Symptoms:

• Use MDandMe: You can use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, get insights, and share longitudinal medical notes with your provider. This can be a valuable tool in managing your condition and communicating effectively with your healthcare team.

What you should look out for

Given the severity of your symptoms and the potential for life-threatening situations, you should seek medical care as soon as possible. Reasons to seek care even more urgently include:

• Worsening Suicidal Thoughts: If you feel that you are at immediate risk of harming yourself, seek emergency help right away.
• Severe Mood Swings: If your mood swings become more intense or frequent, it’s important to get professional help to manage them.
• Impulsive Behaviors: If you notice an increase in impulsive behaviors that put you or others at risk, seek immediate support.

Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, it's essential to consult with a real healthcare professional to receive a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. If you have more questions or need further assistance, feel free to continue the conversation.