Posted by Ponder on March 8, 2002, at 13:38:59
In reply to Re: Severe decrease in cognitive function, posted by Geezer on March 8, 2002, at 9:40:00
CJ,
Your post nearly brought me to tears. I relate strongly, having been quite successful in an intellectually demanding career and having a respectable publication portfolio from freelancing on the side.I often question my own intellectual functioning and wonder if that quick, incisive mind is gone forever -- and what is causing the decline? Is it meds or is it the illness?
I am Bipolar II. I used to doubt the diagnosis, but now have become convinced (another story). My "smart self" does, indeed, return when the depressive part of my illness lifts, but, alas, this competitive world demands consistent, not episodic performance.
I agree that early and effective intervention and treatment is crucial. It IS possible to get stabilized on meds and be functional enough to maintain your career, but I know how difficult that is while the job pressure is still heavily, and impatiently upon you.
I agree with a previous post that the meds you're on are probably contributing to your cognitive difficulties. I also question the selection of meds (I'm not a doctor, just an experienced patient). And I wonder what else you may have tried. Mood stabilizers are important, but some are more "dulling" than others and somtimes those effects can be ameliorated by another drug used in combination. Lamictal has been good for me.
I haven't read the books recommended above, but think I will now. I will be thinking of you and hope you will continue to post. BTW, I found this board during one of my depressive episodes, but did not have the cognitive functioning to figure out how to register for a year. Geesh! Clearly, you're doing better than that!
poster:Ponder
thread:96905
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020307/msgs/97078.html