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Bipolar Disorder/voices?
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Question
I am in a relationship with someone with bipolar who is 22, though this is self diagnosed. I was wondering if it is normal for people with bipolar to hear voices, or that this is the possibility that he may actually be suffering from schizophrenia?
I believe bipolars can hear voices sometimes while extremely psychotic, but that doesn't seem to be the case here.
Schizophrenia could certainly be considered.
Just as an observation, it would seem unwise to be in a relationship w/ anyone w/ a mental illness who was not receiving [and accepting] treatment from a competent doc.
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Answers by Expert:
Libby Bonner
Expertise
I can answers questions from family members of adult patients with serious mental illnesses. I am most familiar with bipolar disorder [manic-depression] and schizophrenia. I use principles of the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill to provide clinical info, emotional support, and practical suggestions, including finances/insurance. Emphasis is on family health; family preservation and functioning; coping skills; and effective communications with patients [consumers] and with providers of services. I am not qualified to help families with patients under 18 I cannot answer questions about herbal remedies.
Experience
I have a daughter w/ bipolar illness. Have experience with clinical medicine/psychiatry through my work in a hospital library. I have taken and now monitor the NAMI Family to Family educational program and I facilitate NAMI family caring and sharing evenings.
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