[jason91078]

We (the family) have tried to talk to my girlfriends Dad about seeing a therapist. He certainly has depression, chronic pain, perhaps manic depressive, and perhaps bi-polar disorder. Anytime anyone talks to him about seeing someone he always has an excuse as to why that "b.s." won't help him. He blames it all on his pain but he won't leave the house, sleeps weird hours, is just so very negative. We think that talking to someone will help. What do you think???

[bebop]

well from someone who suffers chronic pain I can tell you yes it will lead to depression. what is his pain from? mine is back pain. please don't try to give him a bunch of diagnosis without him seeing a dr. let him do that on his own. I can tell you from my experience is that hearing people tell me that I can do things when I know I can't. As far as him not going out? he is probably in too much pain to go out. I hated going out much until I got my wheelchair so I didn't have to try to walk. walking causes me alot of pain and it did keep me inside. it stinks.

[ClinicallyClueless]

Chronic pain and the associated illness/condition could be the cause of his depression. If he isn't willing to go to a therapist, perhaps he would be willing to "complain" about the family's concerns to his physician. Hopefully, the physician will take the hint.

[madisgram]

your gf's family could alert his doctor about his mood swings, symptoms, etc. they can request he bring this up on your gf dad's next appt. the doc however cannot discuss any converstation he has with the patient.
maybe your gf's dad is just happy being unhappy.