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Old May 09, 2007, 11:54 PM
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Rapunzel Rapunzel is offline
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Member Since: Jun 2003
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She has sure had a lot of things to deal with all at once, and probably the cummulative effects were enough to overwhelm her ability to cope. That can translate into various different diagnoses depending on her symptoms, but the dx isn't the most important thing. I'll point out that major stress can trigger many responses and disorders, and is even known to be a factor in schizophrenia sometimes. Not saying that she has that, but stress could trigger depression, delusions, dissociation, etc. If the main stressors were as recent as the Virgina Tech shootings, then it is too soon to be PTSD, but could be Accute Stress Disorder. Or she could have already had PTSD and maybe was re-traumatized. Stress is a big factor, and biological and social factors probably also play a role, such as being more or less resilient, or having an abusive or non-supportive husband. Receiving social support and understanding from you and others can help her to recover too. It works both ways.

What is important is that she receives appropriate support now, and continues treatment. Being hospitalized doesn't guarantee that she will continue to receive appropriate treatment from here on. You might be able to encourage her to continue with therapy and use this as a turning point towards a healing journey that will lead to more fulfillment in life than she has had recently.

Best wishes to all of you.

Rap
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