Case Study

Mr. Timothy Johnson came to the Counseling Center today, complaining of overwhelming depression. He felt as though he could not get out of bed. He was too depressed to go to work and feels like quitting his job. He indicates that he is usually very energetic and begins a new project almost before the last one is completed. His work history is varied, having worked three jobs in as many years.

Discussion with his wife reveals that living with him is like living in the middle of a whirlwind. He is constantly 'on the go'. If he is in the middle of a project he will often not go to bed until the project is completed.

Diagnosis: Bipolar Disease

He has been started on Lithium.

Case Study Activities

1.     Develop a Patient Teaching Plan for Mr. Johnson.

2.     What are the signs of Lithium toxicity?

3.     What other medications can be used in conjunction with Lithium to treat Bipolar Disease?

Email responses to: Frizzell@lasalle.edu

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