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OCD followed by Bipolar depressive episode

FloydeCasual Contributor08 June 2025, 10:07 am AEST

OCD followed by Bipolar depressive episode

Hi all,

I was diagnosed with Bipolar II 5 years ago. I have been on 3 medications [edited by moderator] l since. I was diagnosed with OCD about 2 years ago. Which I am also medicated for now.

My GP trialled a medication [edited by moderator] to help as an appetite suppresent because at bedtime after I take my medication [edited by moderator] I need to snack. I feel this triggered my episodes, I feel they were dormant and ready to go but I feel that the amphetamines in the medication [edited by moderator] made it 10x worse. Especially considering I haven't been this unstable in years.

I had almost a week long OCD spiral. Intrusive thoughts that take over my entire mind, body, emotions. As though I have no control anymore of my brain. I rode through that episode and out.

Currently I've been struggling to sleep even with an increased medication [edited by moderator] dose. The last 3 days I have been moody, feeling I could cry at anything and not being able to stop crying when I start. No ideation but feeling that I can't do this anymore. I feel so scared when I'm in this state. Mostly of being alone. I have a very supportive partner and friends, so I am fortunate for that.

I had my first decent sleep last night in a long time and am feeling I'm somewhat back on earth.

Anyone else with Bipolar II experience these symptoms in a depressive episode?
Has anyone else been triggered from amphetamines?

I have not had an episode this bad for over 3 years or more.

2 replies

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In response to: OCD followed by Bipolar depressive episode

RiverSealModerator08 June 2025, 1:52 pm AEST

Re: OCD followed by Bipolar depressive episode

Hey @Floyde, thanks for sharing your experiences with the community!

Sounds like you are going through a tough time right now with different medications and sleep. You are demonstrating your resilience by reaching out to the community and being really brave, being vulnerable with your peers.

I have had medications that made me really hungry to and I put on a lot of weight in a very short period. I still struggle with my weight and motivation to eat healthy and exercise, so it's a bit of a cycle that I'm trying to overcome. It might be worth having a discussion with your prescribing doctor and talking about the side effects and how they impact your well-being.

I also have had a lot of leep issues for long periods and found it very difficult the following day due to being tired. I learned to manage the tiredness and preactice good sleep hyginie so I maximise my quality sleep opportunity. Here's an website I use a lot and they have some good tips if you feel it might be beneficial to take a look: https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep-hygiene

Thanks again for sharing your experiences and I believe the community will have some insights to share too!

Take care

RiverSeal

In response to: Re: OCD followed by Bipolar depressive episode

tymeModerator08 June 2025, 6:50 pm AEST

Re: OCD followed by Bipolar depressive episode

Hi there @Floyde ,

Welcome to the forums.

Great to have you with us.

Thank you for reaching out to the community.

I hope the community will be able to share their insights and experiences.

What are some things that keep you going, even when things are so hard?

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