Self-help is useful, but it is not a substitute for professional assistance. Emotional and behavioral problems can be debilitating and dangerous. Please seek professional help: 

if you have thoughts of killing yourself or harming others;
if you feel depressed, anxious, guilty or down on yourself frequently; if you are abusing substances; if your performance or interpersonal relationships are impaired.

"Our purpose is to give information.. We can not, and are not, assuming the role of your physician or therapist in any of our replies. 

We also do not know your other medical problems and psychiatric diagnoses, which usually have a dramatic effect on medication (and other treatment) recommendations. You must make a medical and treatment plan with your physician and therapist(s).

1) My name is Heather, and I am a 32 year old female who would like to share both my personal and professional experiences with individuals who are afflicted or suffering from disorders such as Borderline Personality Disorder, Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Schizophrenia, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.  My professional experience includes over 7 years working as a counselor for children, teenagers, adults, and senior citizens who were hospitalized in a psychiatric facility or residential home.  My more recent experiences have given me the opportunity to learn about Alzheimer's Disease.  

I currently work as a Clinical Research Associate.  My job is to monitor clinical drug trials for safety before the drug is approved by the FDA.  I hold a Master of Science Degree in Psychology from Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia, PA.  

More about me:  I have experienced depression since a young child, lived in/through a dysfunctional family, have had several very severe major depressive episodes since age 19, and have been diagnosed several years ago with Bipolar Disorder.  I have experienced the black holes as well as those manic rages.  Therapy and medication have enabled me to stay on a even keel (yes, I have tried most of the psychotropic medications on the market) 

Right now, I have been having lots of fun with friends, staying focused on my goals, and keeping my two Siamese cats out of trouble.  If you need to talk or feel a crisis brewing, please e-mail me.  If you have any non-urgent questions about a disorder, please also feel free to e-mail.  I will respond as quickly as possible. scorpionallure@yahoo.com