[34F] Experiencing mood swings, anxiety, and depression

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possibilities:

• Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): This is a mental health disorder that impacts the way you think and feel about yourself and others, causing problems functioning in everyday life. It includes self-image issues, difficulty managing emotions and behavior, and a pattern of unstable relationships. The mood swings you described, as well as feelings of emptiness and fear of abandonment, are common in BPD. However, a formal diagnosis can only be made by a mental health professional.

  • Treatment typically involves psychotherapy, such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and sometimes medications.

• Bipolar Disorder: This is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). You mentioned a previous diagnosis of bipolar disorder, and some of your symptoms, such as periods of elevated mood and increased energy, could be indicative of this condition.

  • Treatment usually involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy.

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): This is a mental health disorder characterized by persistently depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, causing significant impairment in daily life. Your feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and changes in sleep and appetite could be signs of MDD.

  • Treatment typically involves psychotherapy, medications, or both.

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): This is a common anxiety disorder that involves constant and chronic worrying, nervousness, and tension. Your feelings of anxiety, particularly in large crowds, could be indicative of GAD.

  • Treatment usually involves a combination of psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, and medication.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the information you've provided and not a definitive diagnosis. Only a healthcare professional can provide a formal diagnosis.

What you can do

Here are some steps you can take:

1. Seek professional help: Reach out to a mental health professional such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. They can provide a formal diagnosis and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
2. Reach out to support networks: This could be trusted friends, family, or support groups. They can provide emotional support and practical help.
3. Practice self-care: Regular physical activity, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and illicit substances can help manage symptoms of mood disorders.
4. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Practices such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and improve mood.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate help if you:

• Have thoughts of hurting yourself or others
• Have symptoms that significantly interfere with your daily life
• Have symptoms that are causing distress or concern

Remember, it's important to reach out to a healthcare professional who can provide a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.