Amanda Bynes: Will She Become the Celebrity Face of Schizophrenia?

Amanda Bynes is in the news - again. But this time, much of the focus is on the possibility of a schizophrenia diagnosis.  I mention this to Ben, and he says, "Hmmm. Interesting." This story will not, I suspect, make a dent in Ben's insight into his own illness - not now, at least. Patience is key when you love someone with schizophrenia - along with many other qualities.

But we follow the story, to see what the media does with it.  I see Hollywood Gossip report she is on a "drug cocktail" and comment:

"I'm so glad to hear that Amanda is responding to medication (not "drugs"...these are medications to restore balance, not drugs to alter it). Yes, the big question is there: will she take the meds on her own? In my experience, probably not. Many medical reasons for that (see "anosognosia") but her parents should definitely go ahead with conservatorship. It has been a huge help for us! I blogged about this at healthyplace.com, website with great info and support."

My blogs on conservatorship have gotten the attention of Marketplace, a smart and fair show on NPR that is business-oriented, and they have invited me to be part of a show  (coming up this week) on the topic of conservatorship, with Amanda in the news and all. This same issue came to light in when Britney Spears' parents sought to help their child after bizarre behaviors in public brought attention to her possible mental illness as well.  At that time, I was booked to appear on Dr. Drew's HLN show, but got bumped by a Hurricane Irene story. This time, I hope I can be of some help on Marketplace, sharing the family view of how conservatorship can help.

I am Ben's conservator, but it doesn't mean I run his life, or control him. I am simply allowed to help him when he needs the help - and, yes, sometimes when he doesn't know he needs that help. (when schizophrenia symptoms take hold.) It's a safety net. And we need it.

Watch this blog for updates!