Bipolar can definitely include voices!
I'd say they've been most disturbing when I've been manic, but I also get them when I'm depressed too, but maybe not such a strong sense of other voices, just my own head not shutting up, but either way I have no control over them. But I'm also aware as others have posted it can be like the crossover part that comes with type I BD, into other illnesses. I'd certainly say I've experienced some psychotic 'episodes' along the way, but I think usually as a result of being manic. Still working it all out myself really, just trying to answer your main post as best I can and shed some light on what it's like for me.
I explained to my psychiatrist the other day about the repetition of random phrases or things I hear other people say, it all goes on in my head quite a lot, but she said that is to do with the anxiety aspect for me, she didn't seem any more concerned once I'd told her - she said it was good for me it isn't all the time. Just wondered if that could be a cause for you, bipolar or not, if you're extremely anxious it has to show up somehow. Especially as from what I understand anorexia nervosa has huge ties to being stressed and anxious. Obviously there's more to it than that, but it may be that part coming out in voices, where you are no longer relying on old habits? I don't mean to undermine anything about what you have been through too, as I said that is just what I understand or seem to remember reading in the past. I had a diagnosis of anorexia when I was 12 but I think that was just one of many wrong diagnoses throughout my life!
Anyway, it's really amazing to hear you're on the road to recovery after battling all that, that must have taken a lot of strength, I definitely agree you need to take proper time getting the right help you need. I've been pushing for a diagnosis these last few months, even tho i had a bipolar dx 4 years ago, they don't seem to want to just go with that at the moment, but we are finally discussing meds, and I guess that's a good thing. I think so long as you are being treated, the right diagnosis will come. I regret pushing for one now, as a doctor hastily diagnosed Borderline a few weeks back, and so for now that's what it says on my records, even tho all the other psychiatrists are claiming bipolar!! And he doesn't even work there anymore!! So right now I'm willing to wait, and have ongoing weekly appointments, at least i know they'll see the bigger picture eventually, and for now they are helping more than ever before so that's something.
Good luck sweet and post on here anytime you need support, xxx
