4.2.13

Carpe Diem is Not a Disability

Two weeks ago today I was diagnosed with a 'disability'. Remember my post, When I Deleted the Blog? Well, shortly after, I approached my doctor about the possibility of me either being bipolar, (I was first diagnosed with depression 23 years ago and it's been a constant companion ever since), or suffering from PMDD - premenstrual dysphoric disorder. I explained my recurring manias/moods to her and she shipped me off to the UBC Mood Disorders Clinic. You know what's more uncomfortable than running into an ex with a new partner? Running into an ex's friend working at a mood disorders clinic, ('You were right, she is a psycho!') Hey, I've never denied being in the Crazy Lady Club.

I was fifteen minutes late for my Monday appointment - which I blamed on the construction at UBC, (when in actuality it was due to my utter lack of the comprehension of time). So I was made to wait, which was okay with me since Detwiller Pavillion is right up my alley - a somewhat Brutalist concrete structure with a 95% original mid-century interior, (which includes furniture and built in shelving and desks). The building was designed in 1968 by Vancouver architects Thompson, Berwick and Pratt - well known for the BC Electric Building (now The Electra). Once in the dated, yet unknowingly hip 'consultation' room, the supervising doctor (there were two) told me that if she felt follow up with me was needed an appointment would be made for as soon as possible. After the 60 minute interview drilling she enthusiastically scheduled me in for the following Monday - and instructed me to bring my husband.

To be continued.

Part II
Part III



4 comments:

  1. I can't tell you how refreshing it is to hear someone be candid about this subject. Mental health problems are so very prevailent but so commonly ignored/undiagnosed because of the negative stigma associated with them. If only more people struggling with mental health symptoms that disrupt their life could be this proactive and willing to share their experiences. We would live in a very different world. People don't hesitate for a moment to bring up allergies, migraines and pain problems in social situations or on facebook. It's unfortunate that more open discussion can't happen when dealing it comes to mental health. Thanks Stacy :) Wishing you the best as you find out more about this.

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    1. Thanks Dana. I was 'officially' diagnosed with something (on top of my depression) by the doctor at the clinic - blog post about that soon. If I release all that I know now there won't be any story to tell in the future ;)

      As she said, 'It's going to take a lot of patience'.

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  2. i wish you the best fighting the good fight...being proactive about our health both physical and mental is a must. be kind to yourself...good luck

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Thanks for taking the time to leave your comment.

All the best, Stacy

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