I was diagnosed Bipolar 1, now they're thinking Schizophrenia. What is the major difference that sa

Hi Lost Chances,

If Bipolar 1 is bipolar with psychotic features, as opposed to the rapid-cycling or other types (I will Google it to refresh my memory), that is why the diagnosis could change.  It isn't uncommon for a first diagnosis of bipolar to change into schizophrenia, and the reverse is true, too.  Another diagnosis, schizoaffective, has the components of schizophrenia (a thought disorder) with the elements of a mood disorder (depressive or manic features.)

So be patient while things get ironed out.  If you know your symptoms, have responded well or fairly well to the drug or drugs you're on, please remember that the diagnosis is only a tool, not a label.  You might even find that if your symptoms are under control, you're not so upset by whatever the diagnosis turns out to be in the long run.

Because it's only a psychiatrist who can make the ultimate diagnosis, and I think you're aware of that, so I'll do my best to wrap up with this: imy idea is that it could depend on the overriding nature of the symptoms presented.  Schizophrenia is more of a thought disorder with a mood component, and bipolar is a mood disorder that can have psychotic features.  The psychiatrist has hopefully observed your situation over time and given carefuly consideration to this.

I'll close out by saying welcome to the Connection and feel free to post other questions or write SharePosts in the future.

Best regards,

Chri