Hi folks, I posted in the Bipolar forum but thought there sould be some good info here. I'd like to get some feedback from folks regarding BP disorder and anxiety. Specifically I'd like to know what kind of actions or behaviors are exhibited on the depressed end of the scale. My husband is bipolar unspecified however anxiety has also been diagnosed. During the current depressed cycle he has become totally detached/unemotional, completely avoiding me as well as family and friends. He is in flight mode, living in a hotel. In a recent conversation he says he can't come home due to the anxiety and he wants to focus on the things he can control in his life, his job...he is a workaholic and always hides behind work when depressed. Of course I want to reach out and choke him, my patience just gone, but I understand (I think) why he is acting in this manner. He is convinced he is capable of making good decisions and says he doesn't think he is that depressed. When I point out certain actions he retracts a bit but only for a second. I know, does no good to try and point out the rational right now, I just can't help myself. He is convinced that he is just making change in his life an this is who he is. Ok, known the guy for over 24 years...it ain't him. I predicted the current mood 4 months ago as the 2 companies he is engaged in were ramping up at the same time. Tremendous work load and stress. Add to that the fact that he has been unable to quit current job due to a commitment and the other company is desperate for him to come aboard full time. On a personal note we have had all the ugliness that can occur from the mania but were making good headway in the fall til about March. Things started getting worse when work stress increased.
He is on medication but just had depakote added about a month ago. He does see his pdoc but isn't great at making that appointment a priority over work.

Would really like to hear everyone's experiences. I find the information a life saver. Thanks!