greyCorvus reported that he had spent eight years in a relationship with a woman who had bipolar disorder and that gradually, from being her partner, he took on the role of caregiver. He described how he experienced manic episodes, depression, and psychosis, as well as difficulties in communication with doctors and in dealing with treatments that he believed did not help his partner. He said he often felt unheard and that he had taken on excessive responsibility for her condition. On the occasion of World Mental Health Day, he noted that behind people with severe mental illness, there was a daily life that was often invisible to others, as well as a caregiver trying to cope. He urged psychiatrists to listen to those who live with the patients, stating that they may know aspects of the situation that the doctor does not have the opportunity to observe. He also encouraged them to consider pharmacological options flexibly and to utilize pharmacogenetic testing where appropriate. He mentioned that, under specific clinical conditions and with proper monitoring, methylphenidate (Ritalin) may be an option, while the enzymes CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 influence the metabolism of certain psychiatric medications. He clarified that the testing is not a magical solution but can provide useful knowledge. Finally, he stated that his partner had broken up with him because, as she believed, she did not want to ruin his life. #παγκοσμια_ημερα_ψυχικης_υγειας #ψυχικήυγεία #ψυχιατρική #διπολικήδιαταραχή (translated)
