Rapid cycling bi polar enquiry

[Chaource]

Hi all,

Thanks so much for your messages - this is really helpful.

Just a few updates - she is calmer now and not openly mentioning suicidal thoughts - but unsure if she still has some.

I spoke to two private doctors last week to see if anyone understands my sister's cycling symptoms.

1. One mentioned that she has treated patients similar to my sister, where they developed mood cycling symptoms (around once a month) as their body wants the period to return. When their hormones stabilise then this usually ends (very hopeful). She recommended lithium, ect and maybe later progesterone.

londonpsychiatry.clinic/spe...

2. Another doctor is convinced she has rapid cycling bi polar symptoms and this could worsen when she gets her period. He recommends she removes the antidepressant she is on (Venlafaxine) and only then consider ECT. He says to not add lithium. He said progesterone could help.

psychiatrycentre.co.uk/abou...

Very confused - does anyone know anybody who had these symptoms/conditions I can speak to - especially the rapid cycling bi polar?

Thanks