Let's Talk Life: Will my bipolar disorder flare again?

Yvonnie Bailey- Davidson, Contributor

Dear Counsellor:

I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and am on medication. However, I have not been sleeping well for the past three nights. I am now worried that I will get sick again.

- Morgan

Dear Morgan:

I am glad you're concerned about your sleep patterns. Sleep is very important for individuals who have bipolar disorder. You should see a psychiatrist right away, as this could be a sign of early relapse. The psychiatrist will prescribe medication that will treat bipolar disorder and the sleeplessness.

Some of the other early signs are irritability, sadness and inappropriate behaviour. Others in the early stages become very generous and give away their possessions. Some individual also become very religious and feel that they have special powers.

It is a good thing to spot the illness in its early stages. Anyone who has bipolar disorder should be under the care of a psychiatrist. Some individuals have frequent relapses, while others have few such episodes. It is best to prevent the illness than to try to treat a relapse.

It's good that you're on medication. Relapse caused by non-compliance with medication is a very common situation. There are other reasons for relapse, such as the death of a relative or friend or undue stress at home or work. Stress management is very important, so you need to discuss this with your doctor. Close monitoring and guidance, along with education, are key to staying well.

My daughter is shell-shocked

Dear Counsellor:

My daughter is suffering from shell shock since witnessing an automobile accident. Her fright is preventing her from sleeping at nights. She doesn't want to talk about the incident and doesn't want the family to talk about it. I am worried about her.

- Maxine

Dear Maxine:

Automobile accidents create emotional trauma for the victims and onlookers. They may feel numb and hyperaroused. The trauma causes sleeplessness and nightmares.

Tragic incidents keep replaying in their heads, but victims often don't want to talk about it. People who have witnessed shootings, in particular, also have these symptoms.

Give her plenty of tender, loving care with lots of reassurance. These symptoms usually go away with time. If she is not sleeping properly, she might need a sedative from her doctor.

Don't force her to talk about it. She might be able to keep a journal of her feelings each day. Hug her a lot and tell her that you love her. Pray with her and help her to relax. She will need to be taught relaxation exercises.

Acute stress reaction and post-traumatic stress disorder are quite common in Jamaica.

Email questions and comments for Dr Yvonnie Bailey-Davidson to yvonniebd@hotmail.com or call her at 9788602.