Can You Help Me?

Can you help me? I am trying to research Psychosis. My son smoked cannabis around the age of 14 until he had his first 'episode' around the age of 20 followed by a further 3 episodes over the next 10 years. Each time the Doctors have assured him that if he gave up cannabis he would be unlikely to suffer further episodes. After almost 4 years of well being he suffered a further 'small' episode in March of this year. This was after a period where he had been drinking more than usual on a regular basis and had done some 'binge' drinking. He had also driven almost 1200 miles alone and with very little sleep, followed by a very heavy night's drinking and a very difficult job plastering a ceiling. Although some of the symptoms were similar to previously it was not so severe until he was given 'risperidone' (which had worked previously). This seemed to have an adverse effect. He was then given a different medication which seemed to work very well and very quickly - within 3 months he was off all medication. He has been depressed at times since but in between has started an O.U. course and has kept himself busy.

I am trying to find out if anyone else has had a similar experience. I am also trying to find out if anyone has had psychotic episodes and then been well for many years. All replies will be treated with complete confidentiality - this is purely for my own research and to try and understand what his position might be in the future. We have had varying reports on what the prognosis might be. One Dr said that with care and drinking no more that one or two pints, avoiding stress there is every hope that he may never suffer another 'episode', another has said that further episodes may well occur. Whilst I know that there is no guarantee of anything - it might be helpful/encouraging to hear from others.

Thanks - in the hope that you read this and have the patience to send a reply

Jacky (jacquicarolan@msn.com)