[Gisella7]

I'm new to this site and also new to the condition of bipolar. My son changed over nite to a different person and now he is being hospitalized for a nervous breakdown. he is 27 years of age and we are all devastated as a family. I need to find out what resources are available for us as a family to help him through this? He is currently taking his meds although it was rough getting him to take them in the beginning- I would love to connect with another parent or individual who can relate on this. We are in Fairfax Virginia anyone can write me a letter and say HI please do!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! thanks Gisella

[VickiesPath]

Hi Gisella and welcome to PC.

If your son is inpatient, the social worker at the hospital will have a list of community resources available for you. Also there is much information available here on our website about bipolar illness. I, myself am bipolar. I can understand your concern. It is very frightening for the family when a loved one is first diagnosed.

There is also an organization called the National Alliance on Mental Illness or NAMI. Their website is www.nami.org. They have many resources there and the local NAMI organizations provide support services to the families.

What I would suggest is to simply start reading everything you can but do it as you can. Your son is going to need your support at this time. He needs to know that you are there for him.

Bipolar illness is like any other "organic" illness. It is like diabetes, for example. It is not caused by a character flaw. It is caused by the chemicals in the body not functioning correctly. The medications he will be taking will help him to feel better and will help correct this imbalance.

I am so glad you found us. Please feel free to ask any questions anytime.