Posted by Anne Thomas (208.250.112.8) on July 12, 1999 at 12:51:11:
In Reply to: concern for carl d. posted by phil f. on July 12, 1999 at 02:09:54:
I imagine Carl is grateful that you are his friend, and thank you for reaching out on his behalf. I have some concerns about your comment of he is "more nuts now", how is his behavior, do you feel he could be self destructive or does he have any history of self-destructive/sucidal behaviors that you are aware of? Is he on any newer medications that you are aware of that may be contributing to his behavior or insonmina, or is it only the pain that won't let him sleep. Chronic and constant pain can cause the strongest person to become profoundly depressed, moreso in persons such as ourselves who pain is so often misunderstood. I am fairly new to the board so I am not as familar with Carl as others may be. Is Carl currently under a doctors care. Does he have a mental health professional that you know of? I don't pretend to have the answeres but I have yrs of experience in Mental Health as a Social Worker. If at any time you are fearful for your good friend reach out. Call his doctors and speak to then or take him to the nearest ER anytime day or night. Chronic pain, depression, and no sleep are NOT good. If he does not improve and get some relief and or some sleep he may be at risk. He may require more help than any of us can offer. He may require evaluation, and sedation to give relief. If he become irrational/suicidal/ or destructive call the police, "to protect and to serve", they can help. I hope those reading my post don't get offended in my advice, but I have been there as you have, and we all need to be able to admit that there comes a time when we can't manage anymore, we can't take anymore, and we need immediate attention asap, and as far as insurance goes, no ER will turn anyone away who yells, "I can't manage this, I want to die" Few years ago I could'nt find relief, my sister got concerned because I kept telling her the only thing that would help me would be a gun.. She took me to the ER, I got relief,morphine, and sleep. good luck to your friend.