Guest guest Posted April 12, 2011 Report Share Posted April 12, 2011 Hugs to you Bonnie. So sorry and you are so right- no one deserves this. It's so unfair. > > > I had admitted to the hospital today after trying to manage his > severe anxiety and suicidal behavior over the past couple of weeks. I > haven't had to do that in a few years. I am broken hearted and sick with > worry. I put him in a hospital far from home because it was the best that I > could find at this time. I am seriously considering sending him to or > a place with a good reputation for a more longterm treatment. I don't know > how many more hospitalizations he can take before he gives up. Life is so > unfair and cruel...no child deserves to suffer! > > Bonnie > > > -- Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 12, 2011 Report Share Posted April 12, 2011 I am so sorry Bonnie, that is suffering so much. I know that you have done so much research and seek the best doctors. He is lucky to have a Mom that is so devoted. I hope and pray that you have the strength to keep yourself well in this very very difficult time. The stress I am guessing must be unbelieveably high for you. You hve done so many interventions, new OCD therapists, then Hollander in NYC, the new private school ...I am guessing it is upsetting that the interventions didn't prevent this .. And now you have found other places of support for . Take care of yourself. I wish we could offer some help and support. Pam > > I had admitted to the hospital today after trying to manage his severe anxiety and suicidal behavior over the past couple of weeks. I haven't had to do that in a few years. I am broken hearted and sick with worry. I put him in a hospital far from home because it was the best that I could find at this time. I am seriously considering sending him to or a place with a good reputation for a more longterm treatment. I don't know how many more hospitalizations he can take before he gives up. Life is so unfair and cruel...no child deserves to suffer! > > Bonnie > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 12, 2011 Report Share Posted April 12, 2011 Thanks Pam. I am trying so hard and not many recognize the challenge. Nothing means more to me than my children and so this really cuts deep. This hospital won't be the longterm answer. Matt will probably be there for a week or two. He's a good kid and so I suspect it'll take at least a week for them to see the real . They do a lot of psychoeducational testing and evaluation there (so I'm told) and so I hope that it gives me more info to work on and of course I hope he is more stable when he leaves. If they think he needs more intensive work, then I am committed to providing it at whatever cost (if he's well, I can work more). I can't tell you how hard this is. I am trying to take care of my younger daughter at the same time... not enough of me to go round! Fortunately, I used to live not far from where Matt is and I know the roads (minimum 3 hr round trip aside from visitation, ect). All I need is someone to pick up and care for her till dh comes home. One day at a time is how it'll work for now. I need to have my daughter speak with someone too - if only to vent. I know there must be some resentment, fears, sadness too. I know my too and I don't think she'd confide in me because she knows how upset I am - she's an old soul at age 10! I thank God for her because she's so easy and so adjusted - validates my parenting to some extent. Well, enough rambling - a long day ahead tomorrow. I must say that Cornerstone did more to help me than did Dr. Hollander and Dr. Turovsky. That alone has made my efforts at Cornerstone worthwhile. Update later. Bonnie PS Hope things are looking up with your dd > > > > I had admitted to the hospital today after trying to manage his severe anxiety and suicidal behavior over the past couple of weeks. I haven't had to do that in a few years. I am broken hearted and sick with worry. I put him in a hospital far from home because it was the best that I could find at this time. I am seriously considering sending him to or a place with a good reputation for a more longterm treatment. I don't know how many more hospitalizations he can take before he gives up. Life is so unfair and cruel...no child deserves to suffer! > > > > Bonnie > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 12, 2011 Report Share Posted April 12, 2011 Bonnie, you are so amazing. You take about 2 seconds to feel the weight of the problem and then you are right back with full energy to problem solving. I was listening to the song called " note to God " it is a popular song and the message is to " asking God to help find a way through a difficult situation " ....you seem to really be able to manage your emotions so that you can figure out how to help your whole family, even when you are suffering too. I think that is very amazing of you. I am so glad Cornerstone was support to you. They got to know . I am so happy to hear that they had some good advice. Take care Bonnie and big (((((hugs)))), Pam > > > > > > I had admitted to the hospital today after trying to manage his severe anxiety and suicidal behavior over the past couple of weeks. I haven't had to do that in a few years. I am broken hearted and sick with worry. I put him in a hospital far from home because it was the best that I could find at this time. I am seriously considering sending him to or a place with a good reputation for a more longterm treatment. I don't know how many more hospitalizations he can take before he gives up. Life is so unfair and cruel...no child deserves to suffer! > > > > > > Bonnie > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 13, 2011 Report Share Posted April 13, 2011 I'm so sorry Bonnie. I've walked in your shoes and I know how scary and alone you must feel. I have 2 boys with a form of OCD, both hosptalized. The older one went through several wrong diagnosis and wrong medications. The younger one had the right diagnosis, but so many wrong medications. It's been a rocky these past few years, but things are finally stabilized around here. My older son is graduating from college ( there was a time I never thought I'd see this and I still, with weeks left, it could not happen as he had a set back in Feb., but recovered rather quickly) and the younger one is in high school. I found a private one with a very caring atmosphere, otherwise I would have continued home schooling. Both still have issues, and I still worry, but the storm is abated for now. All I can say is you are right to seek all the help you can. It was a combination of hospital, therapy, medications and not giving up that saved them both. My family,once Norman Rockwellish, then so broken apart, is back too. After all we went through, deep down they still love and care about one another. Having this group was a huge help, because there was no one else I could relate to. I truely believe if you keep turning over rocks, you will find the answer for your son. Sending you good thoughts and stregnth for your inner spirit. - Anita --- > Thanks Pam. I am trying so hard and not many recognize the challenge. Nothing means more to me than my children and so this really cuts deep. > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 13, 2011 Report Share Posted April 13, 2011 I'm so sorry to hear that you and your ds are going through such a difficult time. It does sound like he would benefit from a long term facility, as you mentioned. Many positive thoughts being sent your way. Fay > > > I had admitted to the hospital today after trying to manage his > severe anxiety and suicidal behavior over the past couple of weeks. I > haven't had to do that in a few years. I am broken hearted and sick with > worry. I put him in a hospital far from home because it was the best that I > could find at this time. I am seriously considering sending him to or > a place with a good reputation for a more longterm treatment. I don't know > how many more hospitalizations he can take before he gives up. Life is so > unfair and cruel...no child deserves to suffer! > > Bonnie > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 13, 2011 Report Share Posted April 13, 2011 Dear Bonnie, I am so sorry about what you are going through right now with . My heart breaks for you as no mother ever wants to see her child going through what he is going through. How old is ? I will certainly say a prayer for him, and you! > ------------------------------------ > > Our list archives feature may be accessed at: http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group// by scrolling down to the archives calendar . Our links may be accessed at http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group//links . Our files may be accessed at > http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group//files . > Our list advisors are Gail B. , Ed.D.(http://www.ocdawareness.com ), Tamar Chansky, Ph.D.( http://www.worrywisekids.org ), and Dan Geller, M.D. ( http://www.massgeneral.org/doctors/doctor.aspx?ID=18068 ). You may ask a question of any of these mental health professionals by inserting the words " Ask Dr.(insert name) " in the subject line of a post to the list. Our list moderators are Castle, BJ, Barb Nesrallah, and Stormy. You may contact the moderators at -owner . OCDKidsLoop membership may be accessed at http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/ocdkidsloop/ .. Our group and related groups are listed at http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/ocdsupportgroups/links . IOCDF treatment providers list may be viewed at http://www.ocfoundation.info/treatment-providers-list.php . > NLM-NIH Drug Information Portal may be viewed at > http://druginfo.nlm.nih.gov/drugportal/drugportal.jsp?APPLICATION_NAME=drugporta\ l . IOCDF recommended reading list may be accessed at http://www.ocfoundation.org/Books.aspx . IOCDF glossary of terms may be accessed at http://www.ocfoundation.org/glossary.aspx . IOCDF membership link may be accessed at http://www.ocfoundation.net/membership/ . Drugs.com pill identification wizard may be accessed at http://www.drugs.com/imprints.php . Mayo Clinic Drug and Herb Index may be accessed at http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug-information/DrugHerbIndex .Yahoo! Groups Links > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 13, 2011 Report Share Posted April 13, 2011 bonny im so sorry to hear this bonny...just hang in there...it is terrible..i have been there too...its just so ...i cant find any word for it ..im sorry...i wish you luck.. alida To: From: tuscany_tea@... Date: Wed, 13 Apr 2011 11:43:28 +0000 Subject: Re: Turn for the worst I'm so sorry Bonnie. I've walked in your shoes and I know how scary and alone you must feel. I have 2 boys with a form of OCD, both hosptalized. The older one went through several wrong diagnosis and wrong medications. The younger one had the right diagnosis, but so many wrong medications. It's been a rocky these past few years, but things are finally stabilized around here. My older son is graduating from college ( there was a time I never thought I'd see this and I still, with weeks left, it could not happen as he had a set back in Feb., but recovered rather quickly) and the younger one is in high school. I found a private one with a very caring atmosphere, otherwise I would have continued home schooling. Both still have issues, and I still worry, but the storm is abated for now. All I can say is you are right to seek all the help you can. It was a combination of hospital, therapy, medications and not giving up that saved them both. My family,once Norman Rockwellish, then so broken apart, is back too. After all we went through, deep down they still love and care about one another. Having this group was a huge help, because there was no one else I could relate to. I truely believe if you keep turning over rocks, you will find the answer for your son. Sending you good thoughts and stregnth for your inner spirit. - Anita --- > Thanks Pam. I am trying so hard and not many recognize the challenge. Nothing means more to me than my children and so this really cuts deep. > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 13, 2011 Report Share Posted April 13, 2011 (((hugs))) I hope they are able to help him. > > I had admitted to the hospital today after trying to manage his severe anxiety and suicidal behavior over the past couple of weeks. I haven't had to do that in a few years. I am broken hearted and sick with worry. I put him in a hospital far from home because it was the best that I could find at this time. I am seriously considering sending him to or a place with a good reputation for a more longterm treatment. I don't know how many more hospitalizations he can take before he gives up. Life is so unfair and cruel...no child deserves to suffer! > > Bonnie > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 13, 2011 Report Share Posted April 13, 2011 Awww, Bonnie, so sorry!!! (((hugs))) And after he began that new school, I thought things would continue to get better. I am so sorry! What do his doctors (or those who placed him for you) think, any ideas? How old is he? (re thinking of treatment places) Gosh - hate that he got to that point! Do keep us updated on his progress at the current hospital. I imagine they will look at his meds and try to get him stabilized/better. > > I had admitted to the hospital today after trying to manage his severe anxiety and suicidal behavior over the past couple of weeks. I haven't had to do that in a few years. I am broken hearted and sick with worry. I put him in a hospital far from home because it was the best that I could find at this time. I am seriously considering sending him to or a place with a good reputation for a more longterm treatment. I don't know how many more hospitalizations he can take before he gives up. Life is so unfair and cruel...no child deserves to suffer! > > Bonnie > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 13, 2011 Report Share Posted April 13, 2011 Dear Bonnie, My heart goes out to you! If I had that magic word I would give to you. Be brave! Lots of positive energy to you All the Best Ivalo ________________________________ To: Sent: Wed, April 13, 2011 4:46:50 AM Subject: Turn for the worst I had admitted to the hospital today after trying to manage his severe anxiety and suicidal behavior over the past couple of weeks. I haven't had to do that in a few years. I am broken hearted and sick with worry. I put him in a hospital far from home because it was the best that I could find at this time. I am seriously considering sending him to or a place with a good reputation for a more longterm treatment. I don't know how many more hospitalizations he can take before he gives up. Life is so unfair and cruel...no child deserves to suffer! Bonnie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 13, 2011 Report Share Posted April 13, 2011 dear bonnie my heart goes out to you....be strong and stay with people, dont stay alone...and pray that your sweet heart will get better...but remind yourself one thing, that he is in a safe place even thought he doesnt want to be there..how hard must be for him...my son was there too...and when i saw him in that hospital, my heart broke to pieces...and i hope it works for your child cos for mine didnt work at all...i hope and wish all the best for you..i hope he is in good hands.. blessings alida To: From: ivalookking@... Date: Wed, 13 Apr 2011 10:17:28 -0700 Subject: Re: Turn for the worst Dear Bonnie, My heart goes out to you! If I had that magic word I would give to you. Be brave! Lots of positive energy to you All the Best Ivalo ________________________________ To: Sent: Wed, April 13, 2011 4:46:50 AM Subject: Turn for the worst I had admitted to the hospital today after trying to manage his severe anxiety and suicidal behavior over the past couple of weeks. I haven't had to do that in a few years. I am broken hearted and sick with worry. I put him in a hospital far from home because it was the best that I could find at this time. I am seriously considering sending him to or a place with a good reputation for a more longterm treatment. I don't know how many more hospitalizations he can take before he gives up. Life is so unfair and cruel...no child deserves to suffer! Bonnie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 13, 2011 Report Share Posted April 13, 2011 Anita, I'm glad things are going well for your boys & family. I like your " keep turning over rocks " analogy. Congrats to your oldest for college graduation! > > I'm so sorry Bonnie. I've walked in your shoes and I know how scary and alone you must feel. I have 2 boys with a form of OCD, both hosptalized. The older one went through several wrong diagnosis and wrong medications. The younger one had the right diagnosis, but so many wrong medications. It's been a rocky these past few years, but Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 13, 2011 Report Share Posted April 13, 2011 Bonnie, I know how difficult this is. I have been through it with my child. I do want to say one thing, my biggest regret is that I didn't place my dd in her 60 day long term treatment facility sooner. It really was not only life changing but also I believe saved her life. If you really believe this is what your child needs I would recommend you do it sooner rather than later. My dd spent extra years completely disabled because, despite our best efforts, she needed more than all the treatments we had tried to do. I hope things improve for your son no matter what route you decide to pursue. Hugs, Stormy ________________________________ To: Sent: Tue, April 12, 2011 9:46:50 PM Subject: Turn for the worst I had admitted to the hospital today after trying to manage his severe anxiety and suicidal behavior over the past couple of weeks. I haven't had to do that in a few years. I am broken hearted and sick with worry. I put him in a hospital far from home because it was the best that I could find at this time. I am seriously considering sending him to or a place with a good reputation for a more longterm treatment. I don't know how many more hospitalizations he can take before he gives up. Life is so unfair and cruel...no child deserves to suffer! Bonnie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 14, 2011 Report Share Posted April 14, 2011 Thanks Stormy. I am willing to do longterm treatment - not sure that it's offered there. part of the problem is that is so well behaved at the hospital and soft spoken that they think he's not as bad as he is. I hope that he is in a therapeutic school with staff who will communicate with the hospital will help. Yesterday, he got angery that I wouldn't take him home and they saw some of his behavior, but didn't hear the depth of it. Family meeting tomorrow. Where was your dd hospitalized? Bonnie > > Bonnie, I know how difficult this is. I have been through it with my child. I do > want to say one thing, my biggest regret is that I didn't place my dd in her 60 > day long term treatment facility sooner. It really was not only life changing > but also I believe saved her life. If you really believe this is what your > child needs I would recommend you do it sooner rather than later. My dd spent > extra years completely disabled because, despite our best efforts, she needed > more than all the treatments we had tried to do. I hope things improve for your > son no matter what route you decide to pursue. Hugs, Stormy > > > > > > ________________________________ > > To: > Sent: Tue, April 12, 2011 9:46:50 PM > Subject: Turn for the worst > > > I had admitted to the hospital today after trying to manage his severe > anxiety and suicidal behavior over the past couple of weeks. I haven't had to > do that in a few years. I am broken hearted and sick with worry. I put him in > a hospital far from home because it was the best that I could find at this time. > I am seriously considering sending him to or a place with a good > reputation for a more longterm treatment. I don't know how many more > hospitalizations he can take before he gives up. Life is so unfair and > cruel...no child deserves to suffer! > > Bonnie > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 14, 2011 Report Share Posted April 14, 2011 Thanks everyone for your well wishes. Bedtime is the toughest. ALso keeping a stiff upper lip for my daughter. I'll update as I can Bonnie > > I had admitted to the hospital today after trying to manage his severe anxiety and suicidal behavior over the past couple of weeks. I haven't had to do that in a few years. I am broken hearted and sick with worry. I put him in a hospital far from home because it was the best that I could find at this time. I am seriously considering sending him to or a place with a good reputation for a more longterm treatment. I don't know how many more hospitalizations he can take before he gives up. Life is so unfair and cruel...no child deserves to suffer! > > Bonnie > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 14, 2011 Report Share Posted April 14, 2011 Bonnie, my dd was at Remuda Ranch in Wickenburg, AZ. Hers was a 60 day intensive inpatient hospitalization for girls with severe, refractory anxiety. After she finished that, they then recommended their residential program for her. From looking at the website I believe the program may have changed since my dd was there 2 years ago. It looks like it is just residential now, instead of inpatient, for anxiety and that it may be 45 days instead of 60. I know Remuda was having a lot of trouble getting insurance companies to reimburse as much for their anxiety program as they did for their eating disorders program. This is the reason for the change. It was a very expensive program. My dd saw a pdoc 7 days a week there and they were finally able to get her meds right for her comorbid conditions. It was a fabulous program. I have heard good things about , so maybe that would be a good option. I hope your family meeting goes well. Stormy ________________________________ To: Sent: Thu, April 14, 2011 7:25:55 AM Subject: Re: Turn for the worst Thanks Stormy. I am willing to do longterm treatment - not sure that it's offered there. part of the problem is that is so well behaved at the hospital and soft spoken that they think he's not as bad as he is. I hope that he is in a therapeutic school with staff who will communicate with the hospital will help. Yesterday, he got angery that I wouldn't take him home and they saw some of his behavior, but didn't hear the depth of it. Family meeting tomorrow. Where was your dd hospitalized? Bonnie Recent Activity: * New Members 9 Visit Your Group Our list archives feature may be accessed at: http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group// by scrolling down to the archives calendar . Our links may be accessed at http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group//links . Our files may be accessed at http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group//files . Our list advisors are Gail B. , Ed.D.(http://www.ocdawareness.com ), Tamar Chansky, Ph.D.( http://www.worrywisekids.org ), and Dan Geller, M.D. ( http://www.massgeneral.org/doctors/doctor.aspx?ID=18068 ). You may ask a question of any of these mental health professionals by inserting the words " Ask Dr.(insert name) " in the subject line of a post to the list. Our list moderators are Castle, BJ, Barb Nesrallah, and Stormy. You may contact the moderators at -owner . OCDKidsLoop membership may be accessed at http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/ocdkidsloop/ .. Our group and related groups are listed at http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/ocdsupportgroups/links . IOCDF treatment providers list may be viewed at http://www.ocfoundation.info/treatment-providers-list.php . NLM-NIH Drug Information Portal may be viewed at http://druginfo.nlm.nih.gov/drugportal/drugportal.jsp?APPLICATION_NAME=drugporta\ l . IOCDF recommended reading list may be accessed at http://www.ocfoundation.org/Books.aspx . IOCDF glossary of terms may be accessed at http://www.ocfoundation.org/glossary.aspx . IOCDF membership link may be accessed at http://www.ocfoundation.net/membership/ . Drugs.com pill identification wizard may be accessed at http://www.drugs.com/imprints.php . Mayo Clinic Drug and Herb Index may be accessed at http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug-information/DrugHerbIndex . Switch to: Text-Only, Daily Digest • Unsubscribe • Terms of Use .. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 14, 2011 Report Share Posted April 14, 2011 I am just reading this Bonnie. BIG HUG to you!!! So sorry to hear things have evolved to this. When the anxiety gets so high and if they are not getting any relief it becomes intolerable, they can feel unable to go on, understandably. We had this a couple months ago, but thankfully it passed. So hard, I know. But now you know he is safe, and hopefully you can have some time to decide on next steps. I remember you were making changes with the medication. Do you think this may be part of why this came about? At least in the hospital that is the focus, to get some stability with the meds. That can make all the difference, improved mood, bring the anxiety down, and he will start to see that he will be able to cope again. Also, they may be able to be clearer on what all is going on, if that is a consideration. They can better assess this if they are seeing everyday. Very hard to have them at a distance. Can you call and talk to him daily, get an idea how he's doing, to feel reassured. Hang in there Bonnie! I will be thinking of you, keep us updated. More hugs! Barb > > I had admitted to the hospital today after trying to manage his severe anxiety and suicidal behavior over the past couple of weeks. I haven't had to do that in a few years. I am broken hearted and sick with worry. I put him in a hospital far from home because it was the best that I could find at this time. I am seriously considering sending him to or a place with a good reputation for a more longterm treatment. I don't know how many more hospitalizations he can take before he gives up. Life is so unfair and cruel...no child deserves to suffer! > > Bonnie > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 14, 2011 Report Share Posted April 14, 2011 Thanks to everyone for your support. I have the family meeting tomorrow. Matt's been very anxious there - the therapist called and said " he has a lot of fears " - no kidding!!!! He has his mood disorder, but as I have said, I know there's more to it.. I honestly think this episode is bipolar in nature, but I think that the anxiety contributes to his medication response and I don't think I've had good medication management. Clear cut episodes of instability should be able to be managed/prevented. The baseline behavior could then be evaluated and worked on therapeutically. If I had to pick a trigger or two, I would say that transferring to a new school and experiencing bad grades for the first time in his life is it. The hospital he's in does psychoeducational testing and program recommendations - I hope that gives me some info. I can call a couple times a day and so can he. I have been visiting him daily since he was admitted (150 mi round trip), but that may have to change some next week. I'm doing OK, just tired and worried and missing my boy. He was kind of pitiful yesterday and it broke my heart - gets to me mostly at bedtime. Worried about my daughter too. I wish my answers for him were as deep as my worries - I'd have solved this long ago! Bonnie > > > > I had admitted to the hospital today after trying to manage his severe anxiety and suicidal behavior over the past couple of weeks. I haven't had to do that in a few years. I am broken hearted and sick with worry. I put him in a hospital far from home because it was the best that I could find at this time. I am seriously considering sending him to or a place with a good reputation for a more longterm treatment. I don't know how many more hospitalizations he can take before he gives up. Life is so unfair and cruel...no child deserves to suffer! > > > > Bonnie > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 14, 2011 Report Share Posted April 14, 2011 Bonnie, I am wondering what you mean by, " Clear cut episodes of instability should be able to be managed/prevented? " My dd's bipolar episodes have never really had triggers. When she needs a med adjustment her manic or depressive episodes happen regardless of what else is going on and don't stop until the med changes take affect. There has never been an outside trigger for her. Anxiety though is a very large part of her bipolar but acts different in her then her anxiety that is not part of her bipolar. I hope things improve soon. Take Care, Stormy ________________________________ To: Sent: Thu, April 14, 2011 7:56:53 PM Subject: Re: Turn for the worst I honestly think this episode is bipolar in nature, but I think that the anxiety contributes to his medication response and I don't think I've had good medication management. Clear cut episodes of instability should be able to be managed/prevented. The baseline behavior could then be evaluated and worked on therapeutically. If I had to pick a trigger or two, I would say that transferring to a new school and experiencing bad grades for the first time in his life is it. The hospital he's in does psychoeducational testing and program recommendations - I hope that gives me some info. I can call a couple times a day and so can he. I have been visiting him daily since he was admitted (150 mi round trip), but that may have to change some next week. I'm doing OK, just tired and worried and missing my boy. He was kind of pitiful yesterday and it broke my heart - gets to me mostly at bedtime. Worried about my daughter too. I wish my answers for him were as deep as my worries - I'd have solved this long ago! Bonnie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 14, 2011 Report Share Posted April 14, 2011 Bonnie, you take care of yourself too, I know you have to be worn out emotionally and physically (150m daily, plus regular parent duties, etc.). 's suffered with the bad grade thing too since he began Chapel Hill. Quite an adjustment for him. I don't think he has adjusted totally. Me either, lol. At least by next week, Matt hopefully will be used to being there so maybe you can get by with just phone calls some days and give yourself a rest and more time here & there to your daughter. Quality time, just 20-30 minutes for her & you to spend together can help. With 3 sons, single parent, that's what I had to try and do each week. Note I said *try*! ((hugs)) > > > > > > I had admitted to the hospital today after trying to manage his severe anxiety and suicidal behavior over the past couple of weeks. I haven't had to do that in a few years. I am broken hearted and sick with worry. I put him in a hospital far from home because it was the best that I could find at this time. I am seriously considering sending him to or a place with a good reputation for a more longterm treatment. I don't know how many more hospitalizations he can take before he gives up. Life is so unfair and cruel...no child deserves to suffer! > > > > > > Bonnie > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 15, 2011 Report Share Posted April 15, 2011 What I mean is that his behavior changes dramatically at certain times and I can predict that he will struggle in the spring. It's a seasonal thing that heats up in March - May. I understand that this is a bipolar thing (a kind of reverse seasonal affective disorder), though not all bipolar illnesses behave this way. What makes it worse is any anxiety associated with the seasonal chanage (like his school issues). His behavior changes so dramatically that you'd realize somethig was happening - it truly is a day and night difference. Why then, the dilemma about how to approach the issues? 's baseline behavior is filled with anxiety (comorbidity?). It seems that this aggravates his mood disorder and I wonder that if this is managed, could he avoid the annual sping breakdown? I think that someone should be able to anticipate his springtime needs and avert his issues with meds/intensive therapy? The only time that we were able to avoid a spring breakdown was when he did exposure therapy for his obsessive fears about throwing up. The therapist that helped us with that moved to Boston! Do you see seasonal changes? Bonnie > > Bonnie, I am wondering what you mean by, " Clear cut episodes of instability > should be able to be managed/prevented? " My dd's bipolar episodes have never > really had triggers. When she needs a med adjustment her manic or depressive > episodes happen regardless of what else is going on and don't stop until the med > changes take affect. There has never been an outside trigger for her. Anxiety > though is a very large part of her bipolar but acts different in her then her > anxiety that is not part of her bipolar. I hope things improve soon. Take Care, > Stormy > > > > ________________________________ > > To: > Sent: Thu, April 14, 2011 7:56:53 PM > Subject: Re: Turn for the worst > > > I honestly think this episode is bipolar in nature, but I think that the anxiety > contributes to his medication response and I don't think I've had good > medication management. Clear cut episodes of instability should be able to be > managed/prevented. The baseline behavior could then be evaluated and worked on > therapeutically. If I had to pick a trigger or two, I would say that > transferring to a new school and experiencing bad grades for the first time in > his life is it. > > > The hospital he's in does psychoeducational testing and program recommendations > - I hope that gives me some info. I can call a couple times a day and so can > he. I have been visiting him daily since he was admitted (150 mi round trip), > but that may have to change some next week. I'm doing OK, just tired and > worried and missing my boy. He was kind of pitiful yesterday and it broke my > heart - gets to me mostly at bedtime. Worried about my daughter too. > > > I wish my answers for him were as deep as my worries - I'd have solved this long > ago! > > Bonnie > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 15, 2011 Report Share Posted April 15, 2011 Bonnie, seasonal can definitely affect people with bipolar. When I said that my dd's never had triggers I was referring more to situational type factors, not something like seasonal. My dd's bipolar is independent of what else is going on. When you say, why then the dilemma about how to approach the issues, are you referring to his treatment team? I think March-May is a very difficult time for lots of kids, even those who aren't bipolar, based on working in a school and also what I see on other boards. For people with bipolar, spring often brings mania. I believe that if my dd was having a seasonal response her pdoc would either add a med or change a dose right away to try to stop it in its tracks. Hmm, it is interesting that your son was able to avoid a spring breakdown by working on the anxiety piece. I don't think that would happen with my dd. Her bipolar meds are very critical and for her when they aren't right outside things like therapy (any kind, she has been through many) don't make a difference. If the bipolar is under control and the anxiety is separate than the exposure might work for that. An example for my dd is that when she was in the long term intensive inpatient hospitalization they got her her anxiety to a really good point and then her bipolar was set off and they couldn't stop until the med change took affect, even though the anxiety piece was finally under control. As I said my dd's has anxiety as both part of bipolar and a separate issue but hers seems to behave differently depending on the cause. This past year her bipolar is under control and she did not have a seasonal flare up. She did still have some anxiety flare ups but is managing them much better. I hope things improve soon for your son. Stormy ________________________________ To: Sent: Fri, April 15, 2011 8:59:41 AM Subject: Re: Turn for the worst What I mean is that his behavior changes dramatically at certain times and I can predict that he will struggle in the spring. It's a seasonal thing that heats up in March - May. I understand that this is a bipolar thing (a kind of reverse seasonal affective disorder), though not all bipolar illnesses behave this way. What makes it worse is any anxiety associated with the seasonal chanage (like his school issues). His behavior changes so dramatically that you'd realize somethig was happening - it truly is a day and night difference. Why then, the dilemma about how to approach the issues? 's baseline behavior is filled with anxiety (comorbidity?). It seems that this aggravates his mood disorder and I wonder that if this is managed, could he avoid the annual sping breakdown? I think that someone should be able to anticipate his springtime needs and avert his issues with meds/intensive therapy? The only time that we were able to avoid a spring breakdown was when he did exposure therapy for his obsessive fears about throwing up. The therapist that helped us with that moved to Boston! Do you see seasonal changes? Bonnie > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 17, 2011 Report Share Posted April 17, 2011 Awwwww, Bonnie. I'm heartbroken for you and . ( Big, big ((((hugs)))) I haven't been on much this week because my wretched heart has been on the rampage, but got on tonight (or maybe I should say, early morning) to try to catch up. I was so sad to read your post. You mentioned he is getting bad grades. . Is that at his new school? You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Please keep us updated. And try not to wear yourself too thin. I know it is hard. When they are struggling, it is hard to rest. The stress wears you down to exhaustion. Can you take some time off of work? Hugs, BJ > > I had admitted to the hospital today after trying to manage his severe anxiety and suicidal behavior over the past couple of weeks. I haven't had to do that in a few years. I am broken hearted and sick with worry. I put him in a hospital far from home because it was the best that I could find at this time. I am seriously considering sending him to or a place with a good reputation for a more longterm treatment. I don't know how many more hospitalizations he can take before he gives up. Life is so unfair and cruel...no child deserves to suffer! > > Bonnie > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 17, 2011 Report Share Posted April 17, 2011 Bonnie, Sorry I've been so out of the loop with family stuff that I realized I had 400 messages from the group that I hadn't read so I probably am missing a lot that you've already gone over. First of all, I'm sorry that your son has had to go into the hospital. I know that is completely stressful. Thankfully, my daughter only had to be admitted once for a week when she was 8 and she is nearly 16 now. I was trying to glance at posts before I deleted to see if there was anything I could help with and both the spring time issues and vomiting fears caught my eye. My daughter's OCD centers around a fear of vomiting. When her medication is working well, you would never know anything is wrong with her. When it's not--full blown anxiety about vomiting (and then she gets afraid to eat because her stomach is so anxious), separation anxiety, she's just a mess. Has your son ever been stable on a medication? Has one worked for him? My daughter is on 60 mgs. of Prozac currently, but 3 different times has had to have it supplemented by an antipsychotic. Zyprexa was the one that worked wonders for her, but she was also severely underweight so that's why that one was chosen. It causes so much weight gain I wouldn't go that route unless I had exhausted the others. BUT, she was stable within days of starting it and the longest she was on it was 2 mos. Then she was able to wean off and do fine with just the Prozac again. When her meds aren't working, she is just as you described your son--constant vomit fears. She also has more difficulty in the spring. Her psychiatrist years ago wanted to label her bipolar, but I really believe that it's her seasonal allergies that causes it. It's an autoimmune response just like a reaction to a strep infection would be. I have actually found a few articles that support that. Now, her pdoc disagrees, but I think we will learn a lot more about body/brain autoimmune responses in the coming years and I wouldn't discount it. She doesn't have any other bipolar issues except for the fact that her OCD flares in the spring. I hope you can get the relief needed for your son. It's a terrible feeling knowing that they are in so much distress, I know. Please keep us posted on how he is doing! Take care, Dina > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You are posting as a guest. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.