SANE Forums

[Ilikecats]

Hi, new poster here. I’ve been struggling with depression my whole life and have been diagnosed with bipolar for a few years now. I recently found out I possibly have autism and adhd too. I also suffer from numerous physical chronic illnesses. It’s all really getting to me. My quality of life is fairly low. I’m not in immediate danger but I have a lot of ideation. I’m thinking of going for inpatient care again but the number of hoops to jump through is making that tricky. I’m just so sick of fighting against my own body and brain. 

[tyme]

Welcome to the forums! @Ilikecats It's great to have you with us.

I'm sorry to hear how hard things have been for you.

Do you have any supports you can speak to?

[Ilikecats]

Thanks. I have a fantastic husband, but I’m feeling like I’m overburdening him. He tells me that I’m not a burden, but I still feel like I am. 

[Dimity]

Hello @Ilikecats do you have any moggies yourself?

I'm diagnosed bipolar too, very depressed, possibly neurodivergent, with health issues. I muddle along as best I can.

I have a senior cat who's not thriving at present.

It's good if planned inpatient care is an option for you - it sounds as though you have a team behind you. 

[Ilikecats]

Yes I have a beautiful cat who is a great help to me when I’m not doing well. 

[tyme]

That's so great to hear @Ilikecats . Do you only have one cat?

[Ilikecats]

Yes just the one. We tried to get a friend for her at one point and she was not a fan! 

[tyme]

They want all the attention for themselves? @Ilikecats 

[Ilikecats]

Exactly! Needs to be sitting on or next to us most of the time. 

[Th0ughtlessss]

Hey @Ilikecats 

I just wanted to drop in and let you know you're not alone. I've struggled with my mental health my whole life, was diagnosed bipolar at 18, I came to find out nearly a year ago (I'm 27 now) that it was a misdiagnosis, I'm actually autistic, have ADHD, and have complex PTSD. It's so hard to find adequate support I know. And even harder when you begin to question Autism, it can be life changing for sure. I went through a really rough time when I found out I'm Autistic, there was so much to process and honestly a year later I'm still learning and unpacking things. My biggest recommendation would be finding a neuroaffirming psychologist, you don't need an official autism diagnosis to see one, but they may be able to help you unpack things and answer any questions you have about your neurodivergence and mental health. Key being that they are neuroaffirming. I went through many psychologists, some of which I felt made things worse, until I found neuroaffirming therapy. My last therapist was autistic herself and it was so helpful to be able to have her insight. Also there are Facebook groups for late diagnosed autistic/adhd peeps that can be really helpful to read through, many of us who are late diagnosed have similar experiences. Wishing you all the best