Hi. I am on the STPD / Apsergers / INTP spectrum and am trying to sort things out.
I am wondering if a diagnosis can be made not just based on symptoms and affect, but also on reactions certain medications and drugs.
For example, I have hypomanic states that are exacerbated by SSRI's, which I have heard can point to a bipolar component. When I was on Zoloft, I went off the rails and am finally getting back to baseline after a long while.
Lamictal helps with social engagement and motivation, but also puts me in a hypomanic state and I can't sleep and feel jittery.
I have tried SSRI's and Lamictal both together and separately along with Zyprexa to stabilize the mood but then I feel sluggish, lack motivation, and can't focus on my work, which leads to depression and lack of fulfillment.
I am also wondering about Nicotine because I hear that it can be helpful for those on the schizophrenic spectrum. I am spacey and disconnected, but if I use Nicotine I feel social, can do my work, and the fog is much reduced.
I also wonder about the spaciness and if it is more of a depersonalization / derealization thing rather than schizotypy. Is there anything in particular that can help sort these out? I do have a lot of schizotypal symptoms that are separate from DP/DR so maybe that's the answer or maybe it is both.
It has all gotten 50% better with therapy, but I am ready to reassess since I am back at baseline but still have things to sort out either with medication or the way my life is organized or both. I don't want to make big life changes until I figure out if I am stuck this way or can break through to new ground.
Any thoughts or ideas for further exploration are much appreciated.
Thank you.