![[dr. bob]](/dr-bob-sm.gif)
Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 43 to 67 of 96. Go back in thread:
Posted by Lao Tzu on July 7, 2010, at 11:33:01
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!)))Morgan, posted by Lao Tzu on July 7, 2010, at 11:11:40
The Depression alone can cause much of the feelings of fatigue. If you treat the Depression properly, the fatigue will generally get better as has been my experience so far. It's what steps you take to treat the depression that are important. I guess anything you do to reduce stress on the mind will allow the body to heal properly. When the mind is stressed, the body also is affected. Am I being to simplistic? This is just what I've learned over the years of being depressed, anxious, and having low energy. I'm sure Tai Chi would be good for anybody's well-being, the total mind/body connection. I like Hombre's suggestions of TCM. I looked on some of the websites, and there are some good herbal tonics for all weakened organ systems. I just get confused as to which ones would be right for me. So in my confusion I haven't tried any of the tonics just yet because I'm not having any severe symptoms.
Posted by morgan miller on July 7, 2010, at 12:01:10
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!)))Morgan, posted by Lao Tzu on July 7, 2010, at 11:11:40
Thanks for the well wishes and suggestions. I actually take most or all of the supplements you suggested. I'm really hoping one of the reasons for my fatigue was my thyroid gland. I will be trying Armour or Nature-Throid soon to replace Synthriod. I'm not crazy about Synthroid and I don't like that I can't even enjoy 2 or 3 beers(which is the most I ever plan on drinking) on its.
Posted by Hombre on July 7, 2010, at 18:19:23
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!)))Morgan » Lao Tzu, posted by morgan miller on July 7, 2010, at 12:01:10
One more thing...
Traditional martial arts schools have these external liniments called "Dit Da Jow". They are herbal formulas soaked in alcohol and water for a long time. When applied to acute or chronic injuries, they increase blood flow and speed healing. They do more than that depending on which herbs on in them, but that's the general idea. The are much more powerful than Tiger Balm or similar menthol/camphor liniments.
When I moved to Asia to study martial arts I bought some Jow and it served me well. I would put it on my sore knees and ankles after a hard workout. I never had any lingering injuries. The think with chronic soft tissue injuries is that these areas tend to have limited blood flow. The Jow will warm up the areas, reduce pain, and actually speed healing.
Also, martial arts schools developed tonic soups/formulas to be taken internally. Again, these increase circulation and speed healing of injuries. Fighters would sustain injuries from their training, and in order to get back to training as soon as possible, they developed these internal formulas to help support the body's systems and enhance overall health.
I ordered from this guy, Dale Dugas, and his service was excellent. Feel free to ask him any questions and he will help you out:
Since he is in Boston he may also be able to point you toward some authentic teachers in you area.
For the sake of balance, here's another site that sells similar products.
http://www.shenmartialarts.com/default.asp
As far as I can tell they have quality products (so many fakes out there). Again, contact the site. In my experience, martial artists are usually in it out of sheer passion, so they will often go out of their way to help someone who contacts them.
To learn more, check out this book:
"A Tooth From The Tiger's Mouth"
Just letting you know of some options that are out there. I am not trying to push my views on you.
Salud,
Hombre
Posted by Hombre on July 7, 2010, at 18:39:13
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!)))Morgan, posted by morgan miller on July 6, 2010, at 22:39:05
http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/alter/20100516/msgs/951212.html
I went through a year of constant anxiety and fatigue. It was hell making it through each day. Even when I started my current med regimen, I still had random anxiety and fatigue. Treating the kidneys and spleen have really knocked that out and have given me a calmness and will power that I've lacked for almost two decades.
Kidney Yang and Qi are related to hypothyroidism:
http://www.itmonline.org/arts/thyroid.htm
Don't get lost in the jargon. Look at clusters of symptoms and patterns.
Best of luck,
Hombre
Posted by morgan miller on July 7, 2010, at 18:47:07
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!))) - Fatigue/Hypothyroidism, posted by Hombre on July 7, 2010, at 18:39:13
Thanks again Hombre..Hey have you ever heard about PRP-platelet rich plasma therapy? I used it just one time for a tight groin after hip surgery and it worked like a charm. Now I need to follow up and get it done everywhere. I'm also interested in hip bone marrow stem cell treatments. There is a place in Colorado called Regenexx using these treatments to heal new and old injuries. My doctor that performed the PRP on me is trained to do hip bone marrow stem cell treatments but I'm not sure if he is offering them yet. At the time I was seeing him he was waiting to see how he could make the treatments more affordable to his patients.
Posted by Hombre on July 8, 2010, at 1:35:04
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!))) - Fatigue/Hypothyroidism » Hombre, posted by morgan miller on July 7, 2010, at 18:47:07
I'd never heard of PRP before. If it worked for you before, it sounds like it could work again. I hope it is affordable and something you can eventually do. The body is capable of amazing things given the right circumstances. I have no doubt you can overcome your injuries in time.
In TCM, blood is the mother of Qi and Qi moves the blood. A weak digestive system will decrease the amount of blood and/or the quality of one's blood. Food and drink cannot be properly transformed into blood. In this case, the TCM idea of the spleen and the Western view are close - the spleen does produce RBCs, although bone marrow is probably where most of it happens. The weak spleen in TCM is also related to overthinking, worrying, poor ability to learn and form memories, and of course digestive woes. A lack of blood will result in thinking problems, anxiety, insomnia, palpitations.
The TCM kidneys are also related to marrow, bone health and mental function. Again, certain hormones released in the kidneys control calcium balance.
The TCM liver is associated with tendons and sinews. It is also at the heart of most depressive conditions, because in its healthy state it is responsible for our ability to express ourselves, for our energy and abilities to flow. When we get frustrated or if our lifestyle damages our liver, the resulting stagnation or other problems can really screw with our whole system. Everything is connected.
I know it all sounds like voodoo, but we have to remember that these observations were assembled over hundreds if not thousands of years. I don't do the explanations justice. All I know is that following the principles does seem to do what it's supposed to do, for the most part. Combining different methodologies can often produce well-rounded effects.
Cheers,
Hombre
Posted by Dr. Bob on July 8, 2010, at 3:45:25
In reply to Re: posting name, posted by morgan miller on July 6, 2010, at 12:52:23
Posted by morgan miller on July 8, 2010, at 9:34:45
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!))) - Fatigue/Hypothyroidism » morgan miller, posted by Hombre on July 8, 2010, at 1:35:04
I think what scares me about overcoming the extensive damage in my musculoskeletal system is that things have just progressively worsened and I am now 37 years old. Now I realize that I had 5 minor elective surgeries that I probably should have not had and followed them by stopping working out for almost 2 years.
If one has good insurance it will hopefully PRP will only cost around $200. I think this is a reasonable cost considering that it is not invasive, has little or no risk, and can be a permanent solution.
Here are a few links
I am definitely going to check out the information you gave me on TCM. I am going to get some reflexology done so I'm not sure if that would help or go along the same lines as what you are talking about.
Thanks again for your insight.
Morgan
Posted by Lao Tzu on July 8, 2010, at 11:40:15
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!))) - Fatigue/Hypothyroidism, posted by morgan miller on July 8, 2010, at 9:34:45
Thanks again, Morgan, for recommending Holy Basil! I'm taking it twice a day now, and I find it does help with greater emotional balance. In my opinion, it is better than Siberian or Panax Ginseng as an adaptogen. I never did well on either of those. Stay well.
~Lao~
Posted by morgan miller on July 8, 2010, at 12:24:49
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!))) Morgan, posted by Lao Tzu on July 8, 2010, at 11:40:15
> Thanks again, Morgan, for recommending Holy Basil! I'm taking it twice a day now, and I find it does help with greater emotional balance. In my opinion, it is better than Siberian or Panax Ginseng as an adaptogen. I never did well on either of those. Stay well.
>
> ~Lao~That's great! I'm glad you're feeling some positive difference on Holy Basil. I've heard about it helping so many people so I guess I'm not too surprised. Hopefully for you and me and others Holy Basil offers some of the other potential health benefits I've read it may have.
You stay well too! Take care.Morgan
PS. you know it's funny, I always thought you were female. Don't take that the wrong way :-)I'm guessing with a name like Morgan, there are some people here that have wondered if I were male or female.
Posted by Lao Tzu on July 9, 2010, at 9:50:42
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!))) Morgan, posted by morgan miller on July 8, 2010, at 12:24:49
I didn't mean to give it away :) Yes, I was wondering if you were female or not. By the way you write, you seem like a member of the female species, but I'm not asking. Some people like to remain anonymous, so it's none of my business. In fact, an old friend of mine years ago, his son's name is Morgan, which is a unisex name, I think. I just like being here, putting my two cents in, and conversing with others. I've learned quite a bit from p-babble, and I hope I have helped other people with my experiences. I definitely don't know as much as some people here, but I have put my time in researching and experimenting. It's been an obsession for me, and I wish I could just live my life and not have to worry about what new supplements I'm going to try today. I have spent tons of money trying all kinds of supplements over the years, but I noticed I don't come close to the things people have tried here. Mainly, I've been working on mood, and not other symptoms like thyroid problems or probiotics, or heavy metal chelation therapies. However, all those things are interesting and I like to read up on people's experiences. I'm sure there are some good therapies out there that would work for me besides taking vitamins. I'm trying to keep it as simple as possible, but I've been realizing that mental illness usually requires a more complex solution, in my experience so far. Adding some herbs to the mix I believe is making a slight difference, but I think I'm far from learning the real secrets to my illness. I am excited about new medications in the drug pipeline that affect glutamate receptors in the brain. Those drugs are about 3-5 years away, but I am patient. I never say there is no magic bullet, like people have been telling me for years. That statement lacks hope, and I need all the hope in the world. If I'm ever going to feel real better, it's probably medical science that will bring it to me. It just takes time.
Posted by morgan miller on July 9, 2010, at 10:16:53
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!))) Morgan, posted by Lao Tzu on July 9, 2010, at 9:50:42
Hey Lao, I thought I gave away my sex when I told you some of my story. I guess I could be a lesbian, ha ha. I'm a dude. I am a very athletic, masculine man but extremely sensitive at the same time. It has been a blessing and a curse in my life. I am straight and love women. I don't know why I thought I should clear that up.
I agree with much of what you say about modern medicine and the treatment of illness such as ours. I really hope you and I find relief in some treatment one day and get back to being the people we were meant to be.
I know you mentioned that you play tennis with your brother, but do you ever take part in moderate to intense cardiovascular exercise-like riding a stationery bike, running on a treadmill, or using the eliptical machine?
Posted by Lao Tzu on July 10, 2010, at 20:08:16
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!))) Morgan » Lao Tzu, posted by morgan miller on July 9, 2010, at 10:16:53
I used to bike a lot for exercise, but I've gotten away from it a bit. I have a couple of nice bikes. I may go back to it after all. I always enjoyed biking. I guess in a way it's a childhood thing because as kids we rode bikes all the time during our summers. The memories have always stayed with me. Then, I was "normal" and highly energetic unlike today. At my last job, I did work out in the weight room with one of my colleagues. Since I lost my job to this illness, I haven't been back to the gym. It was a positive experience, though. I only did it for a few months and then quit, but I did feel better about myself in that short time span. I also like running on the treadmill, but I'm not crazy about the elliptical.
Yeah, I'm a sensitive guy myself. Like you, I adore women. I'm hoping one day to get back into a relationship again. It's difficult with this illness. One day, you feel positive about it, the next day it's the furthest thing from your mind. But I do love women. Always have. I like their sensitivity. I always respond to that quality in women. The longest relationship for me was about a year and a half. And I was a late bloomer. I didn't start dating until I was about 28-29 when I started working for the pharmaceutical company. I didn't date in college because that's when the illness started, and back then I didn't know what was happening to me. I just came off as rather shy and severely introverted. But I'm sure it was a lot more than just being shy.
I've only had two steady girlfriends, but the experience was both uplifting and disappointing. I found out one of the girls had a mood disorder. At times, she was very pleasant, and at other times a complete nightmare. I actually lost my virginity to her, which I was finally happy that it happened, but we broke up after a brief relationship. How are relationships working out for you lately? I did a lot of internet dating a few years back. It's not a bad way to meet people in my opinion since I was never a social butterfly.
Anyway, I can't say enough about the Holy Basil. I think it really is helping with my emotions. Its effect is subtle. It's one of the few herbs that I actually think I like. Hats off to you for suggesting it. I'm taking the maximum dosage listed on the bottle. I still need all of my other vitamins, but it has been very useful to me so far.
Enjoy reading your replies. Stay well!!Lao
Posted by morgan miller on July 10, 2010, at 21:28:19
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!))) Morgan, posted by Lao Tzu on July 10, 2010, at 20:08:16
Hey Lao, when I have more energy I will give you a better reply : )
Relationships are very difficult for me right now with as bad as I've been feeling. Things are more complicated than what I have revealed so far. There is something I did a few years ago and it is driving me crazy. I find that it is consuming me. It's physical and it was done out of vanity. I totally regret it. This is definitely getting in the way of me feeling good in general, which is affecting my ability to just live comfortably in the moment and enjoy being with women.
I'm a total mess and live with my father and I still seem to find a way to meet woman and sort of date them. The girl I'm dating now is great but she is growing tire of my suffering. I can't blame her and I think I am going to talk to her and tell her she would be much better off if she stopped dating me. I want to be friends with her and I hope we will be able to continue on with a good friendship. I've grown somewhat dependent on her for relief from the pain I feel. I am starting to shut off any feelings I have for her in preparation for us not seeing each other anymore.
I used to be quite the ladies man, but like you I have never really had a relationship that has gone much longer than a year. The few times that I was in serious relationships, the two of us feel in love hard and fast. They were always very passionate but ended up rocky riddled with dysfunction. I understand it all now and I'm much more mature in so many ways but I am more f*ck*d up in so many other ways than ever before to the point where it is harder than ever to enjoy a relationship or even attract the right person. Ugh....
Morgan
Posted by morgan miller on July 10, 2010, at 21:38:55
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!))) Morgan, posted by Lao Tzu on July 10, 2010, at 20:08:16
I'm so glad you like Holy Basil, it's some good stuff. Unfortunately for me right now I have to get some other things straightened out I think in order to consistently feel the benefits of Holy Basil. I just started 5 mg of micronized DHEA today, I'll let you know how it goes.
So what brand of Holy Basil did you end up getting and how much and how often do you take it?
Sorry to hear you have not been able the experience relationships with women the way I'm sure you would have liked to. I believe there will be a day when you will have a more enriching fulfilling and long-lasting relationship than the ones you've had. At least you have had a chance to experience how wonderful a relationship with a woman can be. You sound like I very smart very strong person. I think you will get better and find a way to have success once again with the ladies, and more than you ever did before.
Man, I'm seriously considering applying for disability. I'm just wiped out and in too much pain and discomfort. I curious to know what I would have to do to increase my chances of being approved for it. I'm sure I can get my psychiatrist, my therapist, and my primary care physician to write letters giving reasons why I should be on disability. I should have applied long ago but I was ignorant to the possibility and maybe a bit stubborn, thinking I was going to get a job and get better. Why don't people suggest disability more often? I hate this sh*t. Life is a complete nightmare. Funny I'm saying this now considering I was such a care free, free spirited optimistic person not too long ago.
M-
Posted by Garnetldn on July 11, 2010, at 16:20:39
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!))) Morgan, posted by morgan miller on July 10, 2010, at 21:38:55
I have tried the HB by New Chapter and also growing Thai Basil. I thought it was helpful, also read that it is an adaptogen. But I am not a good one for keeping with an extract, or even capsules unless highly motivated. When I found that I love the taste and since cravings can often point to something you need I grew and ate a lot of it for two summers. I could even just go out to the garden and eat off the stem while watering. LOL Always made me feel really good and of course I love Thai food made with TB.
As far as I know all Thai Basil is Thai Holy Basil. Although the New Chapter extract is standardized so has a high content of active constituents.
I am on a new hunt though for information on Pyroluria which is a condition of deficiency in B6 and Zinc, mainly that is known to be associated with mood disorders, anxiety and depression. It's a strong connection with some testing available but little in the way of actual markers other than survey studies dating back 30 years or more.
Abram Hoffer MD who started Orthomolecular Medicine along with Linus Pauling and Carl Pieffer MD authored early articles on the so called Mauve Factor.
Mark Vonnegut MD, Kurt Vonnegut's son was treated by Dr Pieffer for a psychotic episode brought on by hallucinogenic mushrooms that landed him in a mental hospital.
I just started a list on Yahoo with resources, mostly links at this point, but I have collected all the scientific publications in my personal files and plan to post those soon.
Hope you can join us and explore this possible explanation for mood disorders, especially those that do not respond to SSRIs.
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/Pyrroluria
Garnet
Posted by Lao Tzu on July 11, 2010, at 22:31:54
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!))) Morgan, posted by Garnetldn on July 11, 2010, at 16:20:39
Morgan, relationships are complicated enough. I just tell myself that I will join the rest of the world when I am good and ready, not before. As an example of a success story, my cousin married a schizophrenic woman. He, himself, is handicapped, but I went to their wedding and they seemed very much in love. So it can work, even in extreme cases. I was an extreme case. I couldn't manage a relationship, let alone my own personal hygiene. That's how screwed up I was about 5 years ago. I've come a long way since then. You live with your dad, I live with my parents and my younger brother. I really need them more than I would admit. The important matter is to rehabilitate yourself, however long it takes. I just take my time, and this frustrates my doctor. He would like me to socialize more, but it's a real effort for me, and I don't like to feel that I have to force myself to interact with people. He tells me, do whatever I want. The medicine is working well, so go out and experience life. That's his message. I wish I could take it to heart. The way I look at it, you seem to be trying to live a normal life. You don't sound lazy at all. Hats off to you for trying to make things work out. My philosophy is one of first, rehabilitating myself to the point that I can handle a relationship in my life. Until I'm ready, I'm not shopping around, so to speak. I guess you could call it laziness, but I think it has more to do with making myself stronger first. Maybe I'm copping out. I don't know. I just realize that when you have a severe mental illness, it takes time, patience, and support to get well. I mean, I'm talking about 20 years of being ill (in my case), to one degree or another. It's not going to go away over night. I don't know how long you have been ill, but it takes time. Some people are real fighters. Others give up. I'm sort of in between. I don't give up all hope, yet I don't try to improve my life, at least not at this point. I will, though, one day.
I'm sorry that your relationship is a little rocky. I wish you the best with your girlfriend. I have to say you are a hero for trying, and I hope she sees that too.
About disability, I've been on disability for about three years. It took me less than a year to start receiving benefits, but that's all because my mother found a good lawyer. It took a while for the doctors to write letters for me. The lawyer pressed them until they did. Then I had to wait for Social Security to get them and then contact me. I had to fill out some forms and a few phone calls were made. The longest part of it were the doctors writing up and sending their letters. They had to state that I was not fit for employment and could not support myself.
Are you seeing a doctor who can evaluate your condition? What does he think? What help do you really need to get better? My mother thought it best to see a really good psychiatrist. He's very good with me, and he has helped me a lot. My first doctor didn't do as well a job with me as my current doctor.
You said you have a lot of physcial complaints, such as with tendons and ligaments. Is there anything the doctors can do about those symptoms? Are these physical complaints causing you to feel depressed, or is it just the depression that hasn't cleared up yet? Have you tried different kinds of medication in addition to the supplements? I find that the meds work for my worst symptoms, and the vitamins, herbs, fish oil, and minerals help with any lingering mood problems and with energy as well. I have learned over the years that medication can be used with supplements safely, and there is a better outcome when both are used, at least for some people like myself. I wouldn't be where I am today without the meds, but the supplements have given me more energy and helped with improving my depression. Thanks to you! Holy Basil is a hit in my book. I just hope it doesn't interact with my Zoloft. So far, I've been feeling okay with it. Do you have health insurance? Have you tried a medication called Provigil, or the new one called Nuvigil? My first psychiatrist gave it to me off-label for energy because I was still having low energy despite being on antidepressants. The Provigil did the trick for me. It was a good medication for me. Because it increased my energy, I felt less depressed as a result. Have you ever tried Provigil? I stopped taking it because, since the insurance companies have been making a lot of changes based on Obama's Health Plan, I was left to pay for it every month, and it is still quite expensive, about $8.00 per pill. The drug company has a monopoly on Provigil. There is no generic for it yet, and many people who need it can't afford it. If you can afford it, I highly recommend it for energy. It's the only drug of its kind. It helped me. Just making a suggestion. Wish you well, as always.Lao
Posted by morgan miller on July 12, 2010, at 21:57:04
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!))) Morgan, posted by Lao Tzu on July 11, 2010, at 22:31:54
Crap! I wrote a response and I guess I didn't confirm it. Ugh. Oh well, I will come back and write another one when I'm up for it.
As far as the safety of combining Holy Basil and Zoloft, I think it is perfectly fine. You could do some research and find out what the MOA of Holy Basil is and try to decide if there might be any contraindications, I don't there there are though.
I'm so glad you actually notice something positive with Holy Basil, subtle or not. I like it and will probably take it on a fairly regular basis for a long time.
Wish you well too my brotha!
Morgan
P.S. I think you're doing the best you can for now. Go at your own pace for sure, just remember you aren't getting any younger! : ) Thank you for calling me a hero of some sort, I appreciate it. I feel a heck of a lot more like a ZERO! I just don't have the same energy, charisma, exuberance, confidence, and enthusiasm. I'm sure you understand. It sounds like you and I are probably being held back quite a bit by are illnesses. Take the illness away and I'm sure you are a very successful person in life. With the illness, you are still successful, just not in the same way, if you know what I mean. I'm glad you have the support you have, it helps a ton.
Posted by Lao Tzu on July 13, 2010, at 10:21:04
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!))) Morgan » Lao Tzu, posted by morgan miller on July 12, 2010, at 21:57:04
Yeah, I know what you mean about being "different" with the illness. And also being held back as well. You're right about that! It's strange how you can feel so different after a meltdown. In some ways, I have enhancement, such as an improved memory which I didn't have before I started taking all the meds and the supplements. And I'm also quicker to respond to statements made by other people, which I didn't have before. I feel less anxious, but I still withdrawal from people. Might have to do with neurotransmitters that regulate excitation and inhibition, such as Glutamate and GABA. When you have fear, there is a dysregulation of GABA neurotransmission in some parts of the brain. I've also believed this may be a missing piece of the puzzle because I was a lot more sociable and more responsive to social cues when I was taking a benzodiazepine everyday.
Anyway, you're not a zero! A zero wouldn't do anything with his life or try to better it. It all has to do with working through your problems one small step at a time. Extreme patience is what is necessary. Otherwise, you'll envision every little stressor in your life as a major drama. I used to do this everyday of my life years ago. I still do it to some degree now, but I think I am more calm now, take things in stride so to speak. I live a retiring life at 39. This shouldn't be, but that's my life. I should be out working, travelling, meeting women, etc. I should be well on my own by now. I had a brief stint of being on my own, and I was so distressed when I lost everything, including some of my confidence. I know now that I am on the road to recovery. I am more positive now than I was five years ago, but the social withdrawal is a lingering negative symptom of my illness. I try not to dwell on it. I'm waiting patiently for the new medications to address negative symptoms of schizophrenia. I have a feeling they will help, but it's going to be awhile yet.
Is lack of energy the worst symptom that is bothering you, Morgan? What other symptoms do you need improvement on? You sound as if you can function okay. I can function okay, too, it's just that I have to rehabilitate as far as socialization. I've had that problem for a long, long time. I never felt like I was on the same wavelength as most people. I felt rather rigid and nervous around people, especially those I don't know well. I tend to have a mistrust of people, even when there is no reason to mistrust them. Schizophrenia has a lot to do with cognitive dysfunction. You tend to have beliefs that aren't based on reality. I still have this lingering problem. You tend to be disconnected from people, and I think it has a lot to do with neurotransmitters that regulate excitation and inhibition. There is a dysfunction there. When you're not on medication, everything seems overstimulating. You can't concentrate on rational thought. And of course, there is a dysfunction of the dopamine-serotonergic system in the frontal/prefrontal cortex of the brain, which may explain a lot of the cognitive dysfunction. I'm rambling, aren't I?
Did you ever get a definite diagnosis of your condition, Morgan? If you know exactly what you have, it's easier to understand it and what you have to do to deal with it. For years, I never knew I was bipolar/schizophrenic. I wasn't properly diagnosed for so many years.
There were so many times in my life where I felt that if I were normal, I would have made so many friends and I would have dated a lot more. I have regrets, but I try not to lay any guilt traps on myself and just focus on the present.
What I can discern from your posts is that YOU have potential to get the life you want. It's going to be difficult, but I'm sure you can overcome your illness and get on with life. I'm hoping I can do the same in time. Keep working and keep dating. It is a good thing for anyone. Peace.Lao
Posted by Lao Tzu on July 13, 2010, at 10:28:02
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!))) Morgan » Lao Tzu, posted by morgan miller on July 12, 2010, at 21:57:04
Oh, I forgot to mention. I think 800mg of Holy Basil is a little too much for me. I'm going to try and stick with 400mg per day. It is helping. I've noticed a more calm, positive outlook already. I tend to do best on lower dosages of herbs. Don't know why exactly. I'm just very sensitive to any substances I put into my body. That's why I am a little resistant to trying Chinese herbal tonics because the dosages are so hight. Nevertheless, I'm keeping an open mind about TCM, thanks to Hombre. Later.
Lao
Posted by morgan miller on July 13, 2010, at 10:36:17
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!))) Morgan, posted by Lao Tzu on July 13, 2010, at 10:21:04
You're great Lao..you may have more going on than you realize. Thanks for the encouragement. Things are super complicated now. No longer is it just being bipolar and having anxiety and occasional passing depression. I am damaged in many ways, this makes it very hard for me to get back to trul living and living comfortable. The difference between now and 3 years ago is light night and day...very scary.
Anyway, I'll get back to you later. I have this cosmetic and make-up training(being a guy I know very little about make-up). I don't want to go but I need to. A week ago I was considering quitting this job and going on disability. But I'm only working 2 days a week now(no more restaurant, they had to let me go for missing father's day brunch shift two weeks ago. I just felt so bad that morning I went back to bed knowing full well that I was missing my shift and might get axed. The liked me and gave me many more chances than I should have gotten). I can accept hangin in there for 2 days a week. Ultimately I want to feel well enough to work and go back to school(which is what I was doing 3 years ago). I would love to do some personal training and eventually go to grad school and get my Master's in Social Work. Ugh, it seems nearly impossible these days. Thanks again for your encouragement..Peace out bro.
Morgan
Posted by morgan miller on July 13, 2010, at 22:08:02
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!))) Morgan, posted by Lao Tzu on July 13, 2010, at 10:28:02
> Oh, I forgot to mention. I think 800mg of Holy Basil is a little too much for me. I'm going to try and stick with 400mg per day. It is helping. I've noticed a more calm, positive outlook already. I tend to do best on lower dosages of herbs. Don't know why exactly. I'm just very sensitive to any substances I put into my body. That's why I am a little resistant to trying Chinese herbal tonics because the dosages are so hight. Nevertheless, I'm keeping an open mind about TCM, thanks to Hombre. Later.
>
> LaoGood idea. I am always tempted to go with a higher dose when something works for me. Then I realize I'm over doing it and have to go back down to the original dose. I even did this with Zoloft years ago when I tried 150 and felt good for the first few days, but then realized I was a little too hyped up and a bit agitated.
Holy Basil has a calming and improved outlook effect on many people. That's good you are responding to it in the same positive way that many others do.
Did you ever tell me what brand you are using? Just curious.
M-
Posted by Lao Tzu on July 14, 2010, at 11:18:52
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!))) Morgan, posted by morgan miller on July 13, 2010, at 10:36:17
Hey, Morgan. How's it going today? You asked what brand of Holy Basil I am trying. New Chapter. It seems like a good quality product. I am going to try staying on just 400mg per day because 800mg made me just a little bit too calm, which I don't like. I like to be at least a little more alert. I think it is great that you are still working even two days a week and that you might go back to grad school. My last girlfriend was a social worker and worked with children and their parents, mostly very young children with problems at home. She's a saint!
I lost my job five years ago because I was taking off too much time due to the bipolar, so I know what you're going through. The illness seems to take over your life and then you become too sick to attend to your responsibilities. Don't worry about it though. There are always other opportunities out there. Now for me, it's going to be difficult to find work because I haven't had a steady job in five years. However, my doctor has cleared me to go back to work, so I'd better do it sooner than later, or else prospective employers are going to look at me and wonder why I haven't worked in so long. I'm going to have to find a good excuse without telling them I have schizophrenia. If I tell them that, there's no way I'll get a job. There is still a degree of discrimination against the mentally ill. Still, I'm technically not schizophrenic anymore because of my treatment. I am much better, so I don't try to label myself as mentally ill. I was very sick about five years ago, but those days have come and gone. I might be ready to go on with my life soon. We'll see. Just taking baby steps. I must say, you are trying, though difficult it is for you, but at least you realize you aren't too afraid to try something. That's a really big step that I myself haven't taken yet. Keep doing what you're doing. It's a good thing. I, myself had a serious breakdown about five years ago, and when I lost my job, I was a basket case. I have recovered quite a bit since then, but I'm still having to deal with some lingering negative symptoms of schizophrenia.
Today, I tried taking my taurine again, and I think it is really helpful to me. It seems to help with the depression, and it is one of the few amino acids that I actually respond to. I'm thinking about trying L-carnitine in addition, you know, because the combination of L-taurine and L-carnitine may be good for the brain. L-taurine is one of the amino acids that is recommended for bipolar. The combination of the two may be good for increased physical endurance. I got that from drinking Monster Energy last winter, and I could actually shovel all of the snow at my house without getting too tired. The L-carnitine is supposedly good for muscle endurance, not so much for mental fatigue. You would need Acetyl-l-carnitine for brain power, but I had tried ALCAR in the past and felt it didn't give me as much brain power as I would have liked so I stopped taking it. It might be different now since I'm taking other vitamins that enhance energy. Maybe it would work better now than it did before. ALCAR is more expensive than simple L-carnitine, but if you need muscle endurance, L-carnitine may be the way to go and ALCAR for brain improvement. It's said that as we age, we need more carnitine in our diets. Well, that's all for today. Have a good day!!Lao
Posted by morgan miller on July 18, 2010, at 11:57:07
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!))) Morgan, posted by Lao Tzu on July 13, 2010, at 10:21:04
>Is lack of energy the worst symptom that is bothering you, Morgan? What other symptoms do you need improvement on? You sound as if you can function okay.
My fatigue has been extreme. I also have muscle and mental fatique. My legs are not only injured but they also often feel unusually weak and stiff. My whole body feels this way at times, especially when my legs also feel this way. I really don't know what is going on with me. These symptoms began after I started treating myself with lamictal after I fell into the deepest darkest depression of my life. Nowadays there seems to be no rhyme or reason to why I feel the way I do at times. I'm really not functioning o.k., I just force myself to work. Actually, my co-workers and managers have noticed that I am not really "present" at times and have talked to me out of being concerned. I'm really hoping that treating my thyroid will help some. I'm also in my second week of taking micronized DHEA. I have a feeling my problems are pretty complicated-rooted in nerve damage, fascia scarring, subluxation, other musculoskeletal issues, and biochemical issues. I'm going to see a neurologist about my fasciculating and sore calve muscles and a physiatrist about all my musculoskeletal issues. I will demand a spinal tap just to make sure there are not any lesions on my spine. Just want to cover all the bases. That's why I say there are so many more things going on here contributing than just me being bipolar. Actually, all the things that I cherished and loved about my life and myself that helped keep me in check over the years and relieved my anxiety are gone for the moment.
>I can function okay, too, it's just that I have to rehabilitate as far as socialization. I've had that problem for a long, long time. I never felt like I was on the same wavelength as most people. I felt rather rigid and nervous around people, especially those I don't know well. I tend to have a mistrust of people, even when there is no reason to mistrust them. Schizophrenia has a lot to do with cognitive dysfunction. You tend to have beliefs that aren't based on reality. I still have this lingering problem. You tend to be disconnected from people, and I think it has a lot to do with neurotransmitters that regulate excitation and inhibition. There is a dysfunction there. When you're not on medication, everything seems overstimulating. You can't concentrate on rational thought. And of course, there is a dysfunction of the dopamine-serotonergic system in the frontal/prefrontal cortex of the brain, which may explain a lot of the cognitive dysfunction. I'm rambling, aren't I?
Ha ha, you were not rambling at all. That's what this is all about, sharing our life experiences and struggles. You can't do that without going on in detail and length. I wouldn't call that rambling, although I too myself often say that I am rambling when I go on about my life and my problems. It's natural.
I'm so sorry you have had such a difficult time with socialization, it must be awful. Socializing and having positive relationships is what life is truly all about, IMHO. So, to not feel like you can enjoy socializing freely and have healthy relationships is devastating-it is to me at least. I can relate somewhat to how you feel and struggle but not quite you the extend you do and have in the past. In highschool I went through a period where I did not hang out with anyone for a few years. I even found myself eating lunch outside my next classroom instead of in the cafeteria with everyone else. I simply did not have any confidence or sense of who I was or who I was becoming and could not handle some of the harsh ways of highschoolers. I did not know how to stand up for myself and dish out a little healthy dose of what was dealt out to me. It was a rough time. Luckily, I was eventually able to break out and become quite the extroverted butterfly. I think 22, the first time I was on medication, prozac, was the first years I actually really felt confident and could truly enjoy myself free of stress, awkwardness or worry. I don't think it was just the prozac but it certainly made an impact.
The last two years have been very difficult for me as far as being able to enjoy a social life. This has been devastating for me since being social and going out with friends and meeting new people was one of the most important aspects of my life. So I really feel for you and not ever really feeling like you were able to truly connect and feel comfortable socially to the point where you could flourish and feel alive in the world.
>Did you ever get a definite diagnosis of your condition, Morgan? If you know exactly what you have, it's easier to understand it and what you have to do to deal with it. For years, I never knew I was bipolar/schizophrenic. I wasn't properly diagnosed for so many years.
I never really had a definite diagnosis. I just know that I fall somewhere under the spectrum of bipolar. Some may say bipolar I based on my last severe mixed manic episode, others may say bipolar II, who knows. I'm not so sure it really matters that much. I just need to find out what works for me without negatively affecting my congition or any other physiological/physical function. I too never knew I was bipolar for years, as I stated in one of my previous posts. I truly believe I may not be where I am right now if I were aware of my diagnosis years ago. Of course, this would have taken the right course of action and the least invasive most effective course of treatment. I think knowing would have empowered me in a way that I could have checked my behavior and been aware of it to the point of being able to modify it some. Much of my past behavior resulted in many of the physical and physiological issues I am suffering from today. I do have to say that I also believe that our childhood experience most likely contributed and may still be contributing to the development and current condition of our illnesses. This is why I am such a strong believer in psychodynamic individual and group therapy.
Morgan
Posted by Lao Tzu on July 18, 2010, at 20:33:44
In reply to Re: Holy Basil Rocks!))) Morgan » Lao Tzu, posted by morgan miller on July 18, 2010, at 11:57:07
I only felt like I had joined the rest of the world when I was taking Ativan years ago. It made me feel so at ease with myself. It dampened bad memories. It allowed me to go out and meet other people and have a girlfriend. But alas, it was an artificial calm. I wasn't really myself, but then again, I really didn't like the real me anyway. I, myself, do not have any real physical problems, but I do remember years ago before all the meds and vitamins, I did complain of fatigue in my body. I had bouts of feeling really weak in my legs and of course, the over-stimulation in my head (dopamine problems). I think it is really wise that you are going to get the tests done. Perhaps they will give you some answers, I hope. I'm picking Hombre's brain about what he thinks is the best Chinese tonic for apathy and fatigue. I'm seriously thinking about trying TCM, but I know I'd probably have to clear it with my doctor first. That's what I should do, but knowing me, I'd do it anyway.
Getting the tests done will give you some peace of mind, I hope. You care enough about yourself to want some answers as to what's going on with your body. I felt the same way about myself, but years ago, I had lingering symptoms despite being on optimal treatment with medication. Obviously, the meds weren't enough. The vitamins have helped me a lot as far as depression and energy. It took me awhile experimenting to get just the right dosages for the vitamins.Do you suppose your chronic fatigue, stiffness, physical complaints, etc might be related to the bipolar? You know I had fatigue and stiffness in my body the whole time I worked at the pharmaceutical company. That job just wore me out physically. I was so fatigued that I wouldn't even wash my dishes or clean the apartment. I stayed at home on weekends and rested the whole time. If I wanted to go out with Lisa, I would take a little more Ativan and this would relax my tired body enough that I could go out and enjoy myself. I'm not saying you should go on Ativan because frankly, eventually, it usually poops out and then you're back to square one. Provigil can help with mental fatigue. There's something called Mitochondrial Disease. I'm not sure of all the symptoms. It is theorized that bipolars may have mitochondrial dysfunction, but it's a rather new theory, and nobody has come out and said that is what's going on here.
I really do hope you get some answers about your condition, Morgan, and how to treat it. You seem like a good, sincere person, and I'm sure you'll make it through this with a little help. The truth is out there somewhere, sometime.Lao
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