Ask Dr. Schwartz
Psychotherapy and Mental Health questions

Hi,

I've been reading some articles online about the symptoms of Bipolar Disorder and Depression and I'm a bit confused about what it is that I might have. I have been trying very hard not to self-diagnose or to even self-impose these symptoms on me, but I do feel as if I may be suffering from Bipolar or Depression.

I've been cycling through very severe depression every month or so, with ongoing, less severe depression, throughout the odd months. When the severe moments hit I become increasingly lethargic and suicidal and I self-harm. Also, I've been attributing my not being able to focus to a vision problem I've had since school but now I'm starting to think that this is potentially a symptom of my problems?

In any case, I think that it may be hereditary as depression runs in my family and so does bipolar. It's been progressively getting worse and I am afraid that I will do something drastic, which the logic part of my says that I shouldn't.

Am I depressed or bipolar or potentially something else? Should I seek medical help and what should I do if my insurance is not favorable?

Thanks in advance.

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