Expert: Catherine Ridenour - 2/9/2006

Question
niagara falls ny
erik is 25 and has been diagnosed several times each different diagnoses.most recently he is medicating for schizophrenia.
erik shows these symptoms:hand flapping,lack of concentration,will not initiate contact verbal or physical,agressive eater(gulping,not chewing and gorging),lack of motivation,sleeps(often during day after nightly sleep),obsesses on rap cd's,obsesses on money(will spend any change left after cd purchase just to use it all).
personal overview by me fathers' girlfriend(inhouse 5 months)
erik is spoiled and given his way by both parents much to often butdisplays many symptoms of mental health problems. erik is prone to power of suggestion(when told by "friends"the shot of prolixin he recieves every two weeks will makehim sleep he slept.then when told by med nurse he should not be sleepy he stopped sleeping). erik graduated high school in special ed but is now retarding to his knowledge and abilities(evident in the 5 months i have lived here).erik has heard voices and seems to go into trancelike state at time thus schizo diagnoses and treatment.
eriks meds are prolixin oral daily as well as shot every 2 weeks, topamax,cogentin,seroquel and acupril for high blood pressure.erik weighs 339 and is 5'11" tall
i am willing to be contacted by email or phone for further info 716-298-4814.
i would appreciate any info or help you could forward me on diagnostic as well as coping with erik and his problems.
thank you for your time in this matter,
beatrice king
7991 lee dr
niagara falls ny 14304

Answer
Hi Beatrice,

First, it's important to know that autism and schizophrenia can exist in the same person.  However, many autistic people are mis-diagnosed as schizophrenic.  One clue that this may be the case is his age.  Twenty years ago, little was known about Autistic Spectrum Disorders.

There is also a genetic syndrome called Prader-Willi that causes the child to feel constantly hungry and to gain enormous amounts of weight.  This could also be a factor.

He needs a thorough evaluation by a psychiatric specialist who is open-minded about the possible diagnoses.  Probably, he would need to be weaned off some of the heavy-duty medications to get a true picture of his situation.  I do not know if he is violent when not on meds and this must be taken into consideration for everyone's safety.

To tell you the truth, this young man (and his family) might be better off in a group living situation designed to offer him treatment as well as shelter.  He is certainly entitled to Supplemental Security Income because of his handicaps.  That would mean his parents would not be on the hook for the bill.

Do a web search for mental health resources in New York. I'm sure you will find many.

Best wishes,
Catherine