Anyone been misdiagnosed Bipolar??

Mental health
1

Been battling Depression for over 10 years and have been treated for depression and anxiety with Anti Depressants for the last 3 years.

I haven't worked for the last 2 years and have always wanted an official diagnosis as I believe I suffer from OCD and elements of PTSD from traumatic events in my life, as well as depression and anxiety.

The Psychiatrist I've seen recently said he agreed with my Psychologist's diagnosis of Dysthymia with Major Depression and Severe Anxiety. Yet when, after many weeks of asking I received a written diagnosis, he had put "F3130 Bipolar Affective Disorder - Current Episode Moderate Depression without Somatic Syndrome".

This diagnosis affected me significantly for the worse as I started researching Bipolar and was v.v.confused that after all these years this is the condition I had, apparently.

Over the course of speaking with someone close to me and going on what I've been told previously I believe that the diagnosis is wrong and feel that it's very unprofessional to give someone in a very vulnerable position a potentially life changing diagnosis via letter without ever discussing Bipolar in person.

Interested to hear if anyone else has been misdiagnosed?

Thanks

2

I totally agree with you.

The opinions of these so-called specialists can vary depending upon who you see.

In your case I can understand what you are saying about your vulnerability and this out-of-blue diagnosis.

If it was me, I would definitely ask for a further consultation with the person you last saw, and demand a full explanation as to what made him/her arrive at that conclusion.

If that request is not met, then I would ask for a further consultation with another specialist. 

3

I agree with archemedes about getting second opinions so that you are

sure as to exactly what you have.

4

Thanks for your reply.

I've asked to see another Psychiatrist as every time I've seen this guy he's too vague and never seems to understand. Also never been asked about symptoms relating to OCD or traumatic events in my life.

All just seems off to me.

Cheers