Expert: Ivan Goldberg, M.D. - 12/9/2008

Question
Hi there,about 3 years ago my wife had a breakdown,and from that point on has lost the meaning value of money,i have tried to containe this problem but it seams to burst open all most right away,this has now leed to HUGE bills across the bourd,a lack in how she looks,well to be honest she just sleeps and shops,the rest is up to me,frankly im shatterd,im a full time baker,we have 2 girls,13 and 5,i find it SOO much of a hardship now,please if you have any advice for me and or my wife i would really be thankfull,my best regards,Alan dey.

Answer
Hi Alan . . .

One of the results of psychiatric illness can be a disregard for the meaning of money and a total lack of awareness of the disasters that might result from overspending. The problem is one that must be dealt with medically as there clearly is no way you can control your wife's behavior 24/7.

IN some communities there si a mobile psychiatric crisis tram that will make home visits if that is the only way to get someone the psychiatric treatment they need. Such mobile psychiatric crisis teams can often be contacted through the Visiting Nurse Service.

Best regards . . .

Ivan
%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%