How are bipolar, OCD and social anxiety disorder treated?

Question

Hello doctor,

I suffer from bipolar 2 disorder as well as OCD and social anxiety disorder. I have tried almost all SSRIs, and SNRIs and neither of them have worked for me (for the last 2 1/2 years). I believe that I have treatment-resistant depression because all the medicines are not working. Currently, I am taking 20 mg of Paroxetine (although I already took 40 mg a few months ago, so I already increased the dose as well), 900 mg of Lithium and 1.5 mg of Risperidone. What should I do?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand that it can be frustrating if the medicines you have tried so far have not been effective. Have you been on the maximum doses of each medicine before trying another? There are medication options like add-on Bupropion, which can be considered by your psychiatrist if the low mood is a significant issue. Any medication changes have to be done carefully under monitoring as you are already on a different psychotropic medication.

More importantly, have you received any psychological therapy like CBT along with your medication? Combination of CBT and medication is likely to be more effective than medication alone. Especially for OCD and anxiety, CBT has a strong response rate. Also make sure that you follow the necessary lifestyle modifications like eating healthy, have a sleep routine, and exercise regularly. I hope this helps.