Messages By: cvalenta1

Quote From: domerdude

Cathy goes from zero to psycho in 15 seconds? I sincerely hope that the Dr. Phil show does not sensationalize this illness on national television. First of all, the term "psycho" is pejorative. To your average viewer that means out-of-control angry and violent. To be responsible, Dr. Phil must explain psychosis in a way that dispels the notion that we are violent and dangerous to others. Otherwise he runs the risk of making people fear us. 

  

This is a serious disorder, but it has been my experience as someone with the classic form, bipolar disorder I, that it manifests itself in altogether different way for many of us. I exhibited a great deal of delusional thinking and behavior when I was manic and sometimes when I was severely depressed. I saw secret meaning in movies, songs, books and other external media. I thought The Today Show was being produced specifically for my benefit and that Katie and Matt were speaking directly to me. I thought a lot of peculiar things. But I was never "psycho." Most of my fantasies were just in my head and were harmless to everyone but me. I think terms like "psycho" and "crazy" are going to upset a lot of bipolar people watching your show if that is what takes place. 

  

Are these people taking medication? Your show needs to touch on the difficulties of bipolar people who take their medication...not just those who don't. What about our prospects for love and acceptance? I don't know, I haven't watched the show yet, so I will reserve the rest of my comments for later, but I just hope so much that the illness will be characterized accurately. The Dr. Phil Show goes out to so many people and just sensationalizing the illness could do more harm then good in the way we are perceived. 

  

I will write more when I've actually watched the show. 

  

  

  

  

  

Quote From: sheilakw

I am not a doctor and even close, but in some cases when nothing else works they may use electric treatments.  My sister, and my mother both have bipolar disorder, and it has been a consideration.   I found this on a website linked to my health insurance.    Treatment

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include: 

Medications

The following medications may be used to treat bipolar disorder (many patients are treated with a combination of two or more of these medications):  

• Lithium – a mood stabilizer, often used as initial treatment (helps prevent manic and depressive episodes from returning)
• Valproate (Depakote), carbamazepine (Tegretol), lamotrigine, topiramate, gabapentin (zonisamide, felbarnate) – anti-seizure medications, also used as mood stabilizers instead or in combination with lithium
• Benzodiazepines – clonazepam (Klonopin) or lorazepam (Ativan) can be used to treat agitation or insomnia
• Zolpidem (Ambien) – used to treat insomnia
• Antidepressants – serotonin reuptake inhibitors or bupropion (Wellbutrin) can be used to treat depression
• Antipsychotic medications – used if patient exhibits psychotic behavior at extremes of mood; “classic” anti-psychotic medications [e.g., haloperidol (Haldol) are not often used because of risks of tardive dyskinesia (uncontrollable movements); “atypical” antipsychotic medications [e.g., risperidone (Risperdal) are more effective with less risk of tardive dyskinesia

Treatment may need to be continued for prolonged periods or indefinitely, depending on the pattern of the illness, to prevent significant mood swings. 

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy may include:  

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Counseling
• Family therapy
• Interpersonal therapy

  

Electroconvulsive therapy

Electroconvulsive therapy may be effective for both mania and depression when medications fail.  

Prevention

There are no guidelines for preventing bipolar disorder. 

RESOURCES:

Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation
http://www.bpkids.org 

Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
http://www.dbsalliance.org/ 

REFERENCES:

Belmaker R. Medical progress: bipolar disorder. N Eng J Med. 2004;351:476-486.  

Bipolar disorder. National Institute of Mental Health website. Available at: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/publicat/bipolar.cfm. Accessed November 10, 2005.  

Last reviewed November 2005 by Janet H. Greenhut, MD, MPH  

All EBSCO Publishing proprietary, consumer health and medical information found on this site is accredited by URAC. URAC's Health Web Site Accreditation Program requires compliance with 53 rigorous standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audits. 

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. 

Quote From: rcaino

Dear Worried.  I really think that Dr. Phil only added to the stigma and stereotype of this disorder.  I also was tempted to call in sick today for shame and embarrasment, and I feel like the show only contributed to people who already like to sensationalize the disorder, and get juicy bits of gossip.  But I got up and went with my held high, and if the conversation comes up about the Dr. Phil show, I think I will mind my business and do my work.  I don't think I can change peoples attitudes.  Too bad Dr. Phil allowed the word "psycho" to be used on his show.  It's a word that is thrown around all too freely, and a word that cuts through me like a knife in my heart.  Stay on your meds, continue treatment, and get as much self help as you can.  I am a spiritual person and my faith has helped me a great deal.  Also support groups like DBSA (Depression and BiPolar Support Alliance) can be very helpful and accepting.  They have on line groups and local groups.  People with BiPolar disorder can be and are contributing members of our society.  Hold your head up high, take care of yourself, and best of luck with the situation with your children.  God Bless you and Keep you.