[mathrye]


Hey folks,



Did a cursory search of the board, and didn't come up with any threads on this. I was wondering how to break it gently to a friend that they are very likely experiencing a manic episode. Recently they posted a three paragraph ranting exposition about the true structure of society to facebook, and by the end of the first paragraph my 'manic writing' red flags were already up. I connected with them via SMS and the responses have been rapidfire lengthy and loosely-connected paragraphs and blocks of questions. I'm planning to call them later so we can chat directly about their recent 'awakening.'



We were really close friends in high school and still rendezvous about once a year, so I feel okay broaching the subject. The question is just how to do so; and I'm not sure what the history is. Perhaps this isn't their first episode, and they already know that they're experiencing mania. But it's also quite possible that they have no idea what's going on or the side implications of their new perspective.



Any suggestions on what to say or how to explain it? The news was first broken to me by a hospital psychiatrist, which is not the ideal way to find out... Have any of you had particularly bad or particularly good ways that people approached the topic with you?



Thanks,

-:- M



[venusss]

Ask them if they are okay, how are they doing... just avoid all shrinky terms in the conversation, because that will annoy even non-manic person.

[CopperStar]

I second that advice. I think it's best to just express concern and caring. Manic/Mixed people can become very easily agitated and even confused when pressed about their behaviors.

[Christopher1990]

The things I have posted on facebook... man.. I know. I've had people ask me if I was alright and whatnot. I'd suggest just just talking to him/her caring and ask whats going on.

[mathrye]

Good points; I'll just lend an ear and keep in touch. Hopefully they'll stay safe! It'll be great to catch up with them. :- )

-:- M