Rachael,

In regards to your query of "original post mentions very little sleep
attained but more sleep needed, or at least that is implied. Web info
indicates that little sleep is needed during the maniac phase".

My rationale for considering a possible bipolar disorder stemmed from
the fact that Sharone reported almost no sleep for months, because of
insomnia, not lack of opportunity.  Mania does not cause people to
require less sleep, just feel that way and be unable to sleep.

> But mom has just informed me that she has barely slept a few nights since the birth--virtually total insomnia.

"original post mentions a possibility of depression ... but doesn't say
why. Perhaps the person involved can see clear mood swings and then the
suggestions of bipolar disorder would make sense to me".

Sharone also reports that mom may have had preexisting mania as well as
having it currently.  Additionally, she suggests that mom may also have
depression/anxiety disorder. (anxiety is a common symptom of depression)

>There is a question of both post partum, as well as, prexisting mania, depression and/or anxiety disorders
>>
"I would just be concerned if she told this woman that she thought she
was ill and further isolated her".

Of course we don't want to isolate mom, however, physical safety takes
precedence over psychological needs and there are clear indications that
safety is significant concern.  She has a large collection of drugs and
substances and has voiced her intent to mix them and take them all.
This is not a course of action most people would consider prudent.  I
got the feeling it was more in the line of a "threat", a cry for help, a
plea not to be abandoned.

> She is left with a huge collection of allopathic, hormal, naturopathic, and nurtritional treatment substances and she is contemplating combining them for self-medicating (and to continuing nursing.)
>
Sharone then went on to tell us that she fears for them.  This says to
me that the potential for self harm and possible harm to the baby seem
to be real concerns to a trained professional who has spent time with
the family.

> But I fear for the child, the baby and mom home alone under these circumstances.
>
Sharone seems to believe that a crisis may be near and that mom needs
pyschological assistance.

> I have recommended they seek comprehesive care that better meets their physical and pyschological needs. But they have brought me into the loop at the eleventh hour when mom was is literally feeling at her wits' end.

I hope that this post addresses the questions and concerns you
expressed.


--

Denny Rice, RN, IBCLC
Dallas Texas USA

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