Expert: Ivan Goldberg, M.D. - 1/16/2006

Question
I have a 20 year old son has been diagnosed with bipolar since the age of 12. He stopped taking his meds when he was 18. On New Year's Eve this year he attempted suicide by injecting meth, but was unsuccessful. He didn't tell anyone but me and not until the next day. He is in serious trouble, and in need of medical help. But he refuses to do anything. He has begun stealing, and of course the lying is non-stop. He can't hold a job, he lost his license due to $2500 dollars worth of tickets, and he feels hopless. He is a very rapid cycler and can change in a matter of hours; sometimes less.
The crisiS intervention team came to my house after the attempt on his life. He lied and told him he was fine now. They can't do anything.

I don't know what to do. I have run out of places to look. He needs help and I feel so very helpless. My life is in shambles emotionally and I just want to give up. I can't handle this emational roller coaster much longer....


Answer
Hi . . .

I think you should stay in contact with the crisis team and discuss with them how an involuntary hospitalization can be arranged. In some states all it takes is the signature of two physicians. I wish i could be of more help but I have little experience wiexperience with this sort of situation.

Best regards . . .

Ivan
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