i was talking with the doc and she said i was BP type 1 with pscycotic features... what exactly does that mean?

So, BP I typically means that you're predominantly manic. Mania tends to be linked to psychosis, so that in itself is not overly surprising. However, you should keep in mind that things like BP I and II are very broad categories, and they do little to actually describe individual experiences. In the long run, BP is an incredibly personal thing, and it can even be difficult for one BP to understand another.

Hi Beg

Fishguy explained it pretty well. Psychotic behaviour is when you have delusions or illusions (where you may become paranoid, overthink, second guess your own thoughts, or just do things out of the ordinary for you, it can be so many things). Like uncontrollable thought, I don't know how else to explain it.

Trace

Hi Beg,

What it means is that the doc can give you a diagnosis and approach your treatment in accordance with the usual approach for that illness.

As Fish has stated, each of has what I see as unique symptoms but enough in common with the recorded data to allow a categorisation and indicated treatment.

You know what you have been through and if you don't understand which bit relates to what part of the diagnosis then ask the doc or read up on it on this forum or Google it.

Essentially there are no "rules" and it depends very much on our own acceptance of both a diagnosis and treatment how we handle that illness.

The variation in mood from top to bottom you should be aware of and how devastating and unexpected that change can be. The idea of treatment is to control that variation through the use of a mood stabiliser (lithium is one such) and usually other meds to deal with the depression etc. In other words, balance the mood out with the aim of having it about the same every day to make life bearable. Usually that tends to be in the depressed side of the mood but at least you know what to expect when you open your eyes each day.

Vigilance both by yourself and your doc is a key part of allowing a semi normal life. If that doesn't happen then life will be erratic at least.

Keep asking is a good approach. Our answers may be too general or not what you were asking so change your question(s). Someone will usually have some info or experience to help you.

Best

Friendly