[44F] With extreme mood swings, delusions, and emotional instability

What might be happening

Based on the information you provided, here are some potential explanations for your symptoms:

• Bipolar II Disorder: This condition is characterized by mood swings that include emotional highs (hypomania) and lows (depression). The extreme mood swings you described, ranging from sobbing and hyperventilating to feeling elated, are consistent with this diagnosis.

  • Treatment: Typically involves mood stabilizers, antipsychotic medications, and psychotherapy. It's important to consult a psychiatrist for a comprehensive treatment plan.

• Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): This condition involves intense episodes of anger, depression, and anxiety that may last from a few hours to a few days. The fear of abandonment, emotional instability, and impulsive behaviors you described are common in BPD.

  • Treatment: Often includes psychotherapy, such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and sometimes medications to manage specific symptoms.

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): This disorder can develop after exposure to a traumatic event. Symptoms include flashbacks, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. Your history of a traumatic brain injury and subsequent memory loss may contribute to PTSD symptoms.

  • Treatment: Typically involves trauma-focused psychotherapy and medications like antidepressants.

• Schizoaffective Disorder: This condition includes symptoms of both schizophrenia (delusions, hallucinations) and mood disorder symptoms (depression or mania). Your delusions and emotional instability could be related to this condition.

  • Treatment: Often involves antipsychotic medications, mood stabilizers, and psychotherapy.

What you can do

1. Seek Professional Help: It's crucial to consult with a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan.
2. Medication Management: Given your complex medical history, a psychiatrist can help you find the right medications to manage your symptoms effectively.
3. Therapy: Engage in regular psychotherapy sessions. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is particularly effective for BPD, while cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help with mood disorders and PTSD.
4. Support System: Build a support system of friends, family, or support groups who understand your condition and can offer emotional support.
5. Self-Care: Practice self-care techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and regular exercise to help manage stress and improve your overall well-being.

What you should look out for

• Worsening Symptoms: If you notice an increase in the frequency or intensity of your mood swings, delusions, or emotional outbursts, seek immediate medical attention.
• Suicidal Thoughts: If you experience any thoughts of harming yourself or others, contact a mental health professional or emergency services immediately.
• Medication Side Effects: If you start any new medications, be aware of potential side effects and communicate any concerns to your healthcare provider.
• Isolation: Try to avoid isolating yourself, as being alone can exacerbate your symptoms. Stay connected with your support network.

Remember, while this information can provide some guidance, it is essential to seek care from real health professionals to receive a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.