Sunday, May 29, 2011
There is a close relationship between bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. These three conditions share genetic roots as well as symptoms, and many of the medications prescribed for one are also prescribed for the others. Still, current definitions of bipolar and schizoaffect...
It's always nice to have some clear-cut definitions of those three disorders, even if they aren't as clear-cut when found in individuals like yourself or myself. Each person's chemical make-up is so different and unique that I don't think a sure-fire 100% accurate diagnosis can be given. I know from personal experience that I've been diagnosed with Bipolar 1 mixed-severe as well as at certain times doctors thinking I have a form of OCD as well. These diagnoses have been over a span of almost ten years (my being only 28), but I think you're right in how different symptoms can manifest differently over spans of time. However, it is good to have in brief descriptions each disorder and what symptoms come along with them. Thanks, Marcia!
Adam