Bipolar depression is historically known to be especially difficult to treat. The patients experience terrible fatigue, hopelessness, helplessness, and many times the medications that are used to treat only provide minimum relief.
While we realize that we just may not know enough about the biochemical interactions, there is extensive research to not only help find better medications but also to help treat the social ramifications of the illness.
Understanding the family dynamics and the impact this may have on illness treatment, remission, and relapse are just as important as pharmacological intervention.
While we realize that we just may not know enough about the biochemical interactions, there is extensive research to not only help find better medications but also to help treat the social ramifications of the illness.
Understanding the family dynamics and the impact this may have on illness treatment, remission, and relapse are just as important as pharmacological intervention.
So what happens when a loved one has been an alcholic for many years and is finally seriously seeking treatment. And then is diagnosed as bi-polar. And, while working with doctors to stabilize related medication, decides to connect with a pain-management group that advocates medical marijuana. What does family do then?
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like this loved one has a complicated illness which involves addiction and either a substance-induced mood disorder or independent or endogenous mood disorder. Addiction psychiatrists are best equipped to diagnose and treat such complex problems. My suggestion would be to try to get a consultation from a good "dual diagnosis" psychiatrist who would coordinate all the treatment modalities.
ReplyDeleteDr.G.