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Subject: Mood Swings

The question was submitted 27 November 2008

For the month of November, my tuition and studies have stopped. I feel aimless and a bit down because I don't have goals in my life. I try to occupy myself everyday and exercise. During sunset, I always feel depressed at home that I take 20 mg of prozac earlier at 3 pm. I am suffering from bipolar type 2. What should I do in the evenings other than to focus on watching TV? Should I also accept this depressive feeling as part and parcel of my bipolar disorder and not be critical of this emotion as it may worsen it if I am too concerned with my depression at night?

Also, when I have an upsurge of energy leading to hypomania, what is the best way to let go of the excessive energy?

Anthony

Answer from DepNet

The answer was published on DepNet 04 December 2008

Dear Anthony

Sounds like you are trying hard to achieve some regularity in your life. This is important in Bipolar disorder. In periods where there is a period of relative slowing of the pace, it may be good to plan to do things that you have always wanted but never had the time to do otherwise.

Bipolar disorder, as you know is characterised by both highs and lows and the treatment strategies may have to be varied according to the phase that you are in. I would advise you to check with your treating doctor with regards to optimising your treatment as you should not just accept that this is part and parcel of your illness

Take good care.

Regards,

Depnet