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In Reply to: Uniformed and Wildly Speculative posted by Jules on February 19, 2006 at 17:55:19:
Hey Jules!
I think your observations have real merit. I would agree that the SG population would be the higher risk cohort in any study. It is important to note that untreated mental health issues can damage anyone. Studies show that younger children and pre adolescents suffer greater trauma and negative imprinting as a result of sexual abuse than any other group. It is actually a testimony to the strength of Ricky's heart, mind and character that he survived as long as he did without appropriate help. I have a lot of respect for his stand and the personal cost of most likely having PSTD. As a victim of clergy sexual abuse as a child even I cannot imagine the neural burden/damage he carried as the result of the level of sexual abuse/torment he suffered growing up. I friend of mine who is a doctor was dumbfounded to hear about Ricky and how long he survived. It really breaks my heart to see how long some wait to get help out of needless fears forced on them by the family . Meds can work but only if you stay on them long enough. It takes weeks for body chemistry to process them and many patients have to take them throughout their lives. Most side effects happen early in the therapy and good doctors are careful and observant for side effects. Bipolar is a chemical imbalance and can not be mitigated without medication. Before drug therapy severe Bipolar patients had to be hospitalized for life or they were driven out of society for dangerous behaviour often labeled as lunatics or demon possessed. Two of my relatives are bipolar, one is stable and takes appropriate medications keeping the disorder dormant while the other had problems accepting long term medication for years and is dead as a result. IMO people who convince seriously ill individuals to stop taking their medications on their own personal faith values or poorly informed speculation are self absorbed and dangerous to others. When you face someone who is seriously disordered, off medications and in possession of a weapon it becomes quickly clear that medications have their place.
Sincerely
Rocky
