Is it ADHD or Bipolar Disorder | ADHD | Episode 74

Although ADHD and bipolar disorder are associated with each other, they are distinct. Patterns over time and whether "mood swings" are primarily reactive or driven from the inside provide the most helpful clues in distinguishing these conditions.

[jaeshasway]

I was misdiagnosed as BiPolar2 for about 5 years. A doctor finally recognized it and diagnosed me as having chronic depression brought on by stress or anxiety. Unfortunately everyone missed the ADHD diagnosis until I hit menopause. Doctor’s missed it because I am the hyper focused type. I did well in school and at work. I didn’t act out except I talked a lot in school. I would draw, play, or read for hours. Often not going to sleep or doing anything else until I finished the book or drawing. I also had insomnia as a kid. It seems obvious to me now that I was adhd. My parents just thought I was smart and an introvert. It’s really a shame that so many women were not diagnosed 40-50 years ago simply because we were well behaved. If we had our lives would’ve been better. Although I think my sister had it too. She got into fights a lot. Although smart she struggled in school. Being both black and female really was a detrimental to our mental health because we were presumed as being okay when in actuality we weren’t.

[kawakami]

Oh my gosh.. I’m so taken aback by that finishing story. Thank you for sharing.

[lisbethbird]

Thanks for this topic. You've done an excellent overview.

[positiveandhealthy]

I try to eat as much NON processed food as possible 😎

[JeffreyWilliams-drqe]

Adhd? Incrementially piling on the stigma! Understand drunks have their own private disorder now.