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Real members of MyDepressionTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

How can someone say your bipolar when they are not a dr

A MyDepressionTeam Member asked a question 💭
Russellville, AR

Of course I have mood swings I’ve a woman that was not ever treated like she was good enough but I raised my boys the.Best I knew how and did the best I could and now I have one son that feels I still owe him and I have a soon to be ex husband that steady stirring the pot

April 16
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Answer Summary

Members strongly agreed that only qualified medical professionals like psychiatrists can diagnose bipolar disorder, while everyday people... Read more

Members strongly agreed that only qualified medical professionals like psychiatrists can diagnose bipolar disorder, while everyday people often misuse the term without understanding its true clinical meaning. Several members shared their own diagnostic journeys, explaining the difference between psychologists who provide therapy and psychiatrists or nurse practitioners who can prescribe medication, with many emphasizing that effective treatment requires both therapy and proper medication management. A recurring theme was the frustration of finding and keeping good therapists, the challenges of navigating insurance coverage, and the importance of staying proactive with treatment even when the process feels overwhelming or discouraging.

MyDepressionTeam

How can someone say you're bipolar when they're not a doctor?

You're absolutely right to question this. Only qualified mental health professionals like psychiatrists or psychologists can diagnose bipolar disorder through proper evaluation. Family members or others without medical training shouldn't be making diagnoses Show Full Answer

How can someone say you're bipolar when they're not a doctor?

You're absolutely right to question this. Only qualified mental health professionals like psychiatrists or psychologists can diagnose bipolar disorder through proper evaluation. Family members or others without medical training shouldn't be making diagnoses, even if they notice mood changes.

Mood swings alone don't mean someone has bipolar disorder. Many life circumstances - like dealing with difficult relationships, feeling undervalued, or navigating family conflict - can naturally cause emotional ups and downs. What you're describing sounds like understandable reactions to challenging situations with your son and soon-to-be ex-husband.

If you're concerned about your mental health or want clarity, consider speaking with a doctor or mental health professional who can properly assess your symptoms. They'll look at the full picture of your experiences, not just isolated mood changes.

In the meantime, it's okay to set boundaries with people who are making unhelpful comments about your mental health. You know yourself best, and you've done your best raising your children through difficult circumstances.

April 16
A MyDepressionTeam Member

I came very close and my heart goes out to you, Kiddo. I've been borderline manic a few times, enough for Melissa to worry enough to ask if I wanted to go to the Behavioral Health Crisis Center at the hospital. I just couldn't see it at the time.

April 20
A MyDepressionTeam Member

I've started out badly. We forgot to have my blood drawn before seeing her. Oh well,
Doug, I have no choice. Had two psychotic breaks last year. Comes when I get depressed, so I work to stay "UP"

April 20
A MyDepressionTeam Member

@A MyDepressionTeam Member, hey, buddy, when you talk to her, maybe ask her for a therapist referral? It's not much more help than Tylenol for a headache, but it really does help discuss pressing issues with and getting coping strategies and guidance from a behavioral health professional.

I laud you for keeping up with your meds and regular checks with your CRNP, but the way I look at it, isn't it like being a small ship in the middle of the ocean, no clouds to guide and GPS isn't working and no lights, but keeping the engine running full steam ahead. It's like just replacing band-aids over a hemorrhaging wound.

Let us know how everything goes, please?

April 20
A MyDepressionTeam Member

I am meeting with my NP today to continue to work on my meds

April 20

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