Britney Spears taken to hospital for tests

[gldstwmn]

http://www.cnn.com/2008/SHOWBIZ/Music/01/04/spears/index.html

LOS ANGELES, California (CNN) -- Pop star Britney Spears was taken to hospital for tests to see if she was under the influence of alcohol or drugs and for a psychological evaluation after police were called to her home Thursday night to mediate a custody dispute, a police spokesman said.


Spears appeared conscious as she was taken from her home.

1 of 2 Spears appeared to be conscious as she was rolled out of her Studio City home on a gurney about three hours after police and ambulances arrived there.

The children were returned to their father, Kevin Federline, who has primary legal custody of the two sons, a police spokesman said.

Doctors at Cedars Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles will decide whether to invoke a California law that allows a patient to be held for psychological evaluation for 72 hours, the police spokesman said.

Aerial video provided by local television station helicopters showed Spears on a stretcher and surrounded by police and paramedics as it was rolled to an ambulance near her home. Watch Britney being taken from her home on a stretcher »


Spears has been in a heated battle with ex-husband Kevin Federline over custody of their two sons, Sean Preston, 2, and Jayden James, 1.

Federline, Spears' former backup dancer, holds primary custody of the children. Spears has been in trouble with the court earlier concerning her compliance with court orders in the custody case.

[strandinthewind]

Oh Well, Hillary must have paid her to divert the headlines :laugh:

Actually, this is pathetic and, frankly, I think BS planned this to get attention, which she apparently and sadly cannot live without.

Interestingly, isn't Kevin F. the good guy in this. Who would have thought that three years ago.

[Sarah]

The picture that shows all the photographers outside of her ambulance makes me want to throw up. This **** goes on with so many other families... in every city, in every state. Why is national media forcing us to form an opinion on this? Can't it at least stay with entertainment news? In terms of the world, Britney Spears doesn't really effing matter.

Newshounds = Bottom-feeders.

[GODDESS6]

perez is reporting she was under the influence, yet tmz says this is just another step down concerning her mental state & not drug induced~ whatever the case, the girl needs some help & i feel 100% for those poor babies~ they are old enough now to really be affected by her behavior~

****ney on the other hand in a paparazzi whore, they have reported that she tips them off alot when she is going out, so i don't feel bad for her that they are camping outside her house & everywhere else she goes, cause she is begging for the attention~ but sadly it is negative attention~ i really have never been a britney fan, maybe it is my age, but pop princesses have never been to my liking~ but i have a strong feeling that if someone doesn't intevene & soon, ****ney just might be on the dead celebrities list for 2008~

[kathy1]

perez is reporting she was under the influence, yet tmz says this is just another step down concerning her mental state & not drug induced~ whatever the case, the girl needs some help & i feel 100% for those poor babies~ they are old enough now to really be affected by her behavior~

****ney on the other hand in a paparazzi whore, they have reported that she tips them off alot when she is going out, so i don't feel bad for her that they are camping outside her house & everywhere else she goes, cause she is begging for the attention~ but sadly it is negative attention~ i really have never been a britney fan, maybe it is my age, but pop princesses have never been to my liking~ but i have a strong feeling that if someone doesn't intevene & soon, ****ney just might be on the dead celebrities list for 2008~

i agree with you also.

[rubytuesday]

The picture that shows all the photographers outside of her ambulance makes me want to throw up. This **** goes on with so many other families... in every city, in every state. Why is national media forcing us to form an opinion on this? Can't it at least stay with entertainment news? In terms of the world, Britney Spears doesn't really effing matter.

Newshounds = Bottom-feeders.
It's sad isn't it? This is world news? Look at what's happening in Kenya at the moment, riots, mass deaths etc, just to mention one thing and this is equally considered world news? Sickening and depressing.

[GODDESS6]

It's sad isn't it? This is world news? Look at what's happening in Kenya at the moment, riots, mass deaths etc, just to mention one thing and this is equally considered world news? Sickening and depressing.

i agree w/ you on this, the ****ney story was top news here, then everything else~

[Steviefan49]

i agree w/ you on this, the ****ney story was top news here, then everything else~

How sad is this? This poor girl needs some help SOOO badly. I feel for the kids right now, as they are the lost ones in all of this. Why did I have a "sinking" feeling upon finding out that Britney was having children?! LOL..

[Sarah]

It's sad isn't it? This is world news? Look at what's happening in Kenya at the moment, riots, mass deaths etc, just to mention one thing and this is equally considered world news? Sickening and depressing.

Yeah, really.

Maybe if we all close our eyes whenever a picture of Britney comes up.... and maybe if never speak her name again... it will all just go away. :laugh:

[David]

The picture that shows all the photographers outside of her ambulance makes me want to throw up. This **** goes on with so many other families... in every city, in every state. Why is national media forcing us to form an opinion on this? Can't it at least stay with entertainment news? In terms of the world, Britney Spears doesn't really effing matter.I agree with this post.

[DavidMn]

what a LOSER!!!:laugh: Britney Spears is nothing but trash.

[Gypsy-Rhiannon]

****ney on the other hand in a paparazzi whore, they have reported that she tips them off alot when she is going out, so i don't feel bad for her that they are camping outside her house

My friend is her neighbour and she just wishes Britney would move as they have to live with the paps hanging around 24/7

[trackaghost]

I agree with Sarah but I do feel sorry for Britney, she's obviously very messed up.

[Villavic]

It's sad isn't it? This is world news? Look at what's happening in Kenya at the moment, riots, mass deaths etc, just to mention one thing and this is equally considered world news? Sickening and depressing.

I agree. Although I admit I found that Britney new and read it with curiousity, I think the attention the media pays for all that stuff does not help Britney in her rehab, in fact it makes it worse. Same with Lohan, Ritchie, etc.. And see how Princess Diana ended..

But how much attention that people and media payed to Kenya, earthquakes at Indonesia, Chile or Peru, etc..??

[Betsy]

Her kids are rather young....

Suppose it has to do with post-partum depression?

Or is it an attempt at "trying to live better with chemistry" - i.e. drugs

She is sooooo young.....just a kid herself....

[Sarah]

what a LOSER!!!:laugh: Britney Spears is nothing but trash.

She's made of flesh, and she is someone's child and mother. You have no right to call her trash, even if you don't like the way she lives her life.

Big judgmental thumbs down. :mad:

[JWS]

Her kids are rather young....

Suppose it has to do with post-partum depression?

Or is it an attempt at "trying to live better with chemistry" - i.e. drugs

She is sooooo young.....just a kid herself....

She is 26...yes, still young, but not a kid. She is way old enough to know what she is doing. Most teenagers act with more sense than this. According to the latest report, the police said she hadn't slept or eaten in days. Where are her handlers and management in all this?:mad:

[SortaSavageLike]

I hear they've found large amounts of the drug Ditzium in her bloodstream, along with semi digested pop tarts in her stool sample. :rolleyes:

[JWS]

I hear they've found large amounts of the drug Ditzium in her bloodstream, along with semi digested pop tarts in her stool sample. :rolleyes:


I don't know what this means...ditzium? Undigested pop tarts?

[DavidMn]

She's made of flesh, and she is someone's child and mother. You have no right to call her trash, even if you don't like the way she lives her life.

Big judgmental thumbs down. :mad:Like I'm losing more than a millisecond of sleep concerned about your opinion of what I have to say. YAAAAWWWNNNN

[Sarah]

Like I'm losing more than a millisecond of sleep concerned about your opinion of what I have to say. YAAAAWWWNNNN

So what? You still talk like a prick. That doesn't change with any amount of sleep.

[GODDESS6]

Her kids are rather young....

Suppose it has to do with post-partum depression?

Or is it an attempt at "trying to live better with chemistry" - i.e. drugs

She is sooooo young.....just a kid herself....

i was wondering about the post partum depression thing too~ as someone who suffered from it after having my son, thank god it wasn't bad~ but it is definitely something i have thought about concerning britney as of late~

[Betsy]

Where are her handlers and management in all this?:mad:

OK... so that phrase made me smile and laugh.....

(She's like the tiger who got out of her cage.)

All joking aside, you have a good point. A lot of people make money off of her, so where are they and why aren't they looking after their financial interest?

Or is this the tough love approach --- to leave her alone and let her hit the bottom of the waterless swimming pool?

The big news on Denver TV two days ago, was that Brit's boyfriend put $2 million as a downpayment on a house in the Denver area...and Brit was gonna be bringing the papparazi to the Mile High City....and do "we" want that???

On site reporters can be real morons at times... I watched Entertainment Tonight and saw their "reporter-on-the-scene" at the hospital.... He sounded like an idiot.... He was talking rapidly, checking his notes, turning around and looking behind himself (in a paranoid manner) ... and I am thinking..... "Why am I watching this crap?"

[gldstwmn]

http://www.tmz.com/2008/01/05/britney-takes-phil-pill/

Only in Hollywood. doctor Phil takes Britney home.

[gldstwmn]

The big news on Denver TV two days ago, was that Brit's boyfriend put $2 million as a downpayment on a house in the Denver area...and Brit was gonna be bringing the papparazi to the Mile High City....and do "we" want that???

There's no way the neighbors in Cherry Creek north will let that happen. It's too hard to find a parking spot already. :laugh:

[kathy1]

it was all over the news here.

[DavidMn]

So what? You still talk like a prick. That doesn't change with any amount of sleep.Look, like I said I have no idea who you are, and I DONT CARE. How people like you can some to the defense of these loser celebrities is totally beyond me. But whatever works for ya! I have a right to my opinion and if you font like it TOO BAD!

[Gypsy-Rhiannon]

OK... so that phrase made me smile and laugh.....

(She's like the tiger who got out of her cage.)

All joking aside, you have a good point. A lot of people make money off of her, so where are they and why aren't they looking after their financial interest?

Or is this the tough love approach --- to leave her alone and let her hit the bottom of the waterless swimming pool?

The big news on Denver TV two days ago, was that Brit's boyfriend put $2 million as a downpayment on a house in the Denver area...and Brit was gonna be bringing the papparazi to the Mile High City....and do "we" want that???

On site reporters can be real morons at times... I watched Entertainment Tonight and saw their "reporter-on-the-scene" at the hospital.... He sounded like an idiot.... He was talking rapidly, checking his notes, turning around and looking behind himself (in a paranoid manner) ... and I am thinking..... "Why am I watching this crap?"
I know my friend in beverly Hills is desperate for Britney to clear out...

[Sarah]

Look, like I said I have no idea who you are, and I DONT CARE. How people like you can some to the defense of these loser celebrities is totally beyond me. But whatever works for ya! I have a right to my opinion and if you font like it TOO BAD!

You don't need to know who I am, and I don't care who you are. You called a human being a worthless piece of trash. That's some pretty messed up bull****, considering that you don't know her personally. I guess you are an expert on the subject of flesh-waste, though, right? Yeah. I think you probably are.

I have a right to my opinion too, and if you don't like it, you can feel free to not respond.

[skcin]

Britney's a pig, I ****ing hate her.

[carrie721]

Britney's a pig, I ****ing hate her.

paula why would you post this.

[DavidMn]

You don't need to know who I am, and I don't care who you are. You called a human being a worthless piece of trash. That's some pretty messed up bull****, considering that you don't know her personally. I guess you are an expert on the subject of flesh-waste, though, right? Yeah. I think you probably are.

I have a right to my opinion too, and if you don't like it, you can feel free to not respond.Whatever:lol: Go worship at Britney's feet if you love her so much! You know, I'd have alot more to say about your disparaging weight remark about me, but you're not worth getting banned over.

[danax6]

Britney's a pig, I ****ing hate her.LEAVE BRITNEY ALONE! :mad:

[strandinthewind]

I think it is rather tragic that people are so quick to judge and hate her. How many of us could have handled what she went through and come out "normal." If history demonstrates anything, it is that child stars usually come out as really messed up adults, which Spears clearly is, no matter how pretty the prison is. So, I have no hate for her, only pity. I do not understand people that hate without actually knowing someone or personally knowing all of their plight.

But, I think this boils down to people hating her because they think she is some rich bitch choosing with free will to abuse and flaunt the advantage given to her. I think people ignore the huge psychological issues this woman clearly has. It is as if because she is rich, she does not get the benefit of being mentally ill and the sympathy that goes along with that for people less financially fortunate.

In the end, I think she needs help. Sadly, like so many mentally ill people, she is her own worst enemy in that she cannot see that treatment is the only way to the light at the end of the tunnel. Remember, many mentally ill people often refuse treatment or begin and then stop treatment because they think they are fine. Don't we all know people like that in our own lives. Do they get the same hate or is it only the rich ones because money is seen as some sort of panacea for the controlling and devastating effects of mental illness.

As for Dr. Phil - OY! His actions are that of an opportunist. Does anyone here really think he cares about LA Spears? I think he realizes Spears on his show means a million dollars for each 30 second advertising segment and other perks like a book deal, magazine interviews, etc. -- all of which are worth tens of millions of dollars to him. Therefore, I have, if it is possible, even less respect for him for IMO preying on his pathetic human being in her obvious time of need.

[Sarah]

Whatever:lol: Go worship at Britney's feet if you love her so much! You know, I'd have alot more to say about your disparaging weight remark about me, but you're not worth getting banned over.

Work on your comprehension skills a little. It's not about worshiping Britney. I don't care about Britney. It's about not calling human beings trash just because they don't live their lives in a manner that is appealing to you. :rolleyes:

But, I think this boils down to people hating her because they think she is some rich bitch choosing with free will to abuse and flaunt the advantage given to her. I think people ignore the huge psychological issues this woman clearly has. It is as if because she is rich, she does not get the benefit of being mentally ill and the sympathy that goes along with that for people less financially fortunate.

Strand, I think you are exactly right. And this came up a while back in one of the Luke Wilson thread I think it was... remember that whole argument someone was trying to make that, "oh hay, you have all the money and opportunity in the world, so you shouldn't have mental problems". Dur. Sorry cupcakes, it doesn't work like that. Hell, knowing I was being repeatedly psycho-analyzed by every channel and every message board would drive me freakin' crazy, too. Do I have some dislike for Britney? Yes. I'm not into tabloid junk and MTV music. Do I dislike her because of her problems? No. I hope she gets the help she needs, just the same as I hope anyone else struggling gets the help they need. I'm surprised she hasn't offed herself. The most disgusting thing is thinking that if she did, there would probably be some people here who would be glad about it and think the world is a better place for it. barf.

[strandinthewind]

As predicted:

TMZ has learned Dr. Phil's visit with Britney Spears was not exactly as advertised.

People on the 7th floor at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center say the doctor arrived about 7:30 AM Saturday. We're told Britney did not invite him in; she didn't even know he was coming. Sources say it was Brit's parents who told Dr. Phil to go to the hospital. When he walked into her room, we're told, a blindsided Britney walked out -- and eventually came back.

Sources say Phil tried speaking with Spears for about 15 minutes -- not an hour as Dr. Phil's press release states -- but she wanted none of it. We're told Phil was doing almost all the talking. As for walking with her to the car on her way out -- again, as his release states -- we're told if he was walking behind her, that's news to her. She absolutely was not accompanied by him.

Sources say Dr. Phil somehow convinced Brit's mom and dad to be on his show, which will tape Monday and air Tuesday (it was just moved up a day), but as one person put it, "Based on the interaction between Dr. Phil and Britney this morning, it'll be a cold day in hell before Britney goes on his show." We're told she absolutely will not appear on the program.

Sources say Dr. Phil wants to do a television intervention, something that isn't sitting well with some of the people who have known for a while that Britney has a very serious mental condition -- likely a bipolar disorder that is now in the red zone.

TMZ contacted Cedars to find out why the hospital let a television doctor on a floor that has such fragile patients, particularly since Britney had no idea he was coming. It's especially troublesome that Cedars let Dr. Phil go uninvited to Britney's room, since she had already been discharged and presumably had a right to know if someone wanted to visit. A Cedars rep made it short and sweet, telling us, "No comment."

A rep from the "Dr. Phil" show had no comment as well, other than "Dr. Phil met with Ms. Spears at family members' invitation."

www.tmz.com

To me, it seems that notoriety and the spot light is the last thing Spears needs right now. I say this because I think Spears is using notoriety and the spotlight like a drug. To wit, she drives around all night long apparently going nowhere IMO in an attempt to get people to notice her. I mean giving a haeroine addict heroine right before or during an intervention seemingly is not the best idea :shrug: So, I conclude that while Dr. Phil and the Spears family may be concerned about Britney, these tactics seemingly are money making ventures to me.

[David]

Sources say Dr. Phil somehow convinced Brit's mom and dad to be on his showOf course, Dr. Phil -- more precisely, the phenomenon that is Dr. Phil -- doesn't exist in isolation. Millions of easily entertained people also participate in this phenomenon. I say put Britney into Outward Bound! That will fix her.

Sources say Dr. Phil wants to do a television intervention, something that isn't sitting well with some of the people who have known for a while that Britney has a very serious mental condition -- likely a bipolar disorder that is now in the red zone.Why is it "likely a bipolar disorder"? Does she have the classic symptoms of bipolar disorder?

[strandinthewind]

Of course, Dr. Phil -- more precisely, the phenomenon that is Dr. Phil -- doesn't exist in isolation. Millions of easily entertained people also participate in this phenomenon. I say put Britney into Outward Bound! That will fix her.

True -but millions of people did not go into her hospital room uninvited as she was leaving. Dr. Phil's actions IMO were calculated, conniving, and pecuniary. But, I agree, millions are entertained by this, or at least watching as if it were a train wreck, which is a god metaphor.

Why is it "likely a bipolar disorder"? Does she have the classic symptoms of bipolar disorder?

I believe she has been diagnosed with this.

[strandinthewind]

I am FAR more outraged by Dr. Phil's actions. He is disgusting in my book. I mean this fool knows about mental disorders and he pulls this shiitte :mad:

Psychiatrists Slam Phil, Cedars

Posted Jan 6th 2008 6:25PM by TMZ Staff

Eight psychiatrists tell TMZ they are shocked Cedars Sinai Medical Center let Dr. Phil go up to Britney Spears' room without her prior knowledge or consent.

The shrinks had various things to say about Dr. Phil's visit to Brit's room, but the theme was unified -- that the hospital should not allow any doctor who does not have in-patient privileges into a patient's room, unless that patient has given prior consent. TMZ has learned Britney had no idea Dr. Phil was coming to her room and indeed when he walked in she became agitated and walked out. She eventually came back in and he pretty much did all the talking for around 15 minutes.

One psychiatrist called it "intrusive and inappropriate." Another shrink told us the hospital "is supposed to be a safe place. If the patient doesn't want to see someone, that person doesn't get in -- period."

Another shrink, who said he was "outraged and disgusted," added, "It is incredible that the hospital allowed Dr. Phil in her room. It's a total violation of her rights."

One doc surmised bluntly the hospital was "star struck" and let the TV doctor's profile override its judgment.

www.tmz.com

[David]

Eight psychiatrists tell TMZ they are shocked Cedars Sinai Medical Center let Dr. Phil go up to Britney Spears' room without her prior knowledge or consent.Cedars Sinai administration should be fined for breach of security & reckless endangerment of patient.

[SuzeQuze]

Her kids are rather young....

Suppose it has to do with post-partum depression?

Or is it an attempt at "trying to live better with chemistry" - i.e. drugs

She is sooooo young.....just a kid herself....

Yes, I think she's pretty obviously suffering from some kind of mental illness. It's very sad for her children especially. I'm having a hard time being sympathetic toward her though because she is so reckless and irresponsible. I wish the media would stop paying attention to her. Don't click on any of their f*cking stories about her or buy any magazines with her on the cover. Or watch programs that report on her. Basically boycott the mainstream media. Check out BBC news and other outlets. Ours are largely ****e.

[SuzeQuze]

Of course, Dr. Phil -- more precisely, the phenomenon that is Dr. Phil -- doesn't exist in isolation. Millions of easily entertained people also participate in this phenomenon. I say put Britney into Outward Bound! That will fix her.

Dr. Phil is an opportunist. His show is for entertainment. I think he does help some people but he cannot help people that are as ill as Britney. He's no therapist. His quick and dirty approach can be damaging to people that are very ill. I think he does care about people but he is misguided and greed and fame grubbing have clouded his judgement.

Why is it "likely a bipolar disorder"? Does she have the classic symptoms of bipolar disorder?

One symptom, being up for days, was documented in the press regarding her state when people arrived at her home.

[strandinthewind]

. . . I'm having a hard time being sympathetic toward her though because she is so reckless and irresponsible . . . .

Do you think she is control of her actions? Or, is the mental illness controlling her? I think it is the latter.

I base this on a friend of mine's mother, who had her last child ten or so years after her second to last. She was already mentally unstable, but that last birth sent her over the edge. She would take her medication for a few months and she was "normal." But, she would stop taking it (she thought she didn't need it) -- and a week later she was walking down the street naked at 3:00 in the morning. In a way, my friend's mother also acted irresponsible and reckless. My friend certainly thought that. Was he correct? I cannot say. His mother's (and apparantly la Spears') actions were reckless.

I had a friend her in Atlanta who essentially was the same way. He would take the medication and then stop. Then he'd drink bottles of liquor and take tons of pills to supplement the medication. After being in several institutions to no avail, he did the ultimate self-medication and shot himself in the mouth, dead. It was horrifying, but there was nothing any of us could have done to save him and we certainly tried our best. Was my freind reckless? I suppose he was. But, having judged it with my own eyes, it was the disease controlling him.

So, I try not to judge her any differently than I would anyone else.

[SuzeQuze]

Do you think she is control of her actions. Or, is the mental illness controlling her. I think it is the latter. I base this on a friend of mine's mother, who had her last child ten or so years after her secnd to last. She was already mentally unstable, but that last birth sent her over the edge. She woulkd take her medication for a few months and she was "normal." But, she would stop taking it (she thought she didn't need it) -- and a week later she was walking down the street naked at 3:00 in the morning. In a way, my friend's mother also acted irresponsible and reckless. My friend certainly thought that. Was he correct? I cannot say. His mother's (and apparantly la Spears') actions were reckless.

So, I try not to judge her any differently than I would anyone else.

Yeah you're right. When people are in mania they cannot control their behavior. I wasn't thinking of her as bipolar but if she is that would explain a lot. Although I have a hard time having sympathy for her, in the end I usually manage some.

I also know people with this disease and the mania is very difficult to manage. People do crazy things when in a manic state. Like plan a wedding with a famous person who they don't even know or jump out of a moving car. It reeks havoc on relationships and finances. It is treatable though and usually people need very supportive, close people in their lives to get better. They often don't want to take their meds because the mania feels really good and the meds can leave them feeling blah. It does look like Britney has nobody truly caring about her unconditionally and it is very sad. Shame on her parents for being pimped out by Dr. Phil. That cannot possibly be helpful. Tough love is not a good approach in bipolar. In defense of her family and friends maybe they have really tried and just cannot reach her and have given up. It sounds like she just rejects anyone who will try to stop her from doing what she wants, even if it is harmful to herself and others.

I'm sorry to hear about your friend. The suicide rate for bipolar is very high. :(

[Mad4stevie]

Why is it "likely a bipolar disorder"? Does she have the classic symptoms of bipolar disorder?

Yes. I have been thinking for months that this is what is wrong with her. While I am not a mental health professional, I lived with my ex-boyfriend, who was bipolar and an alcoholic. The things that she is doing, including the indulgence in drugs and booze, is typical of a bipolar person who is not on the right medication. This self-destruction is the same type of thing that goes on with many, many bipolar people who are not attempting to manage their illness.

Family members suffer greatly when a loved one is this out of control. I had to involuntarily commmit my ex when he tried to kill himself. Thankfully, they kept him the psych ward for 5 days and got him on the right meds. To my knowledge, he is still on his meds, but it is not easy, and he has fallen off the wagon several times due to his chemical issues with his meds.

No one should blame her for what is going on. She doesn't have the mental ability to know the kind of self destruction that is taking place. Normally, when they get help (if they get help), there will be a long depression over all the mess that they made of their life while manic. It is truly a horrible thing to witness.

This is giving a very public face to mental illness.

[strandinthewind]

^^^

Interestingly, the alcohol abuse sometimes is not alcoholism. My friend would use alcohol in any form (at one point, he was drinking bottles of Nyquil) as another form of medication. He was not an alcoholic per se because when he was on the right meds, he rarely drank and had no desire to do so. But, when the meds would stop working, he'd start drinking.

Also, I am glad (for want of a better word) that you found your way thorough all of that.

[strandinthewind]

Also, there have beem no reports of La Spears' testing positive for illegal drugs. In fact, most of the news is reporting that she did not test positive for illegal drugs. In other words, if that is so, then she really is bonkers on her own or as the result of too much or too little medication. So, there is that to consider.

[SuzeQuze]

^^^

Interestingly, the alcohol abuse sometimes is not alcoholism. My friend would use alcohol in any form (at one point, he was drinking bottles of Nyquil) as another form of medication. He was not an alcoholic per se because when he was on the right meds, he rarely drank and had no desire to do so. But, when the meds would stop working, he'd start drinking.

Also, I am glad (for want of a better word) that you found your way thorough all of that.

I think this is what my ex from last year was going through and is still going through as far as I know. I don't have any contact with him.

I am also glad you found your way through all of that, living with someone like that must be the hardest thing in the world to do.

[strandinthewind]

^^^

At some point, you have to leave the situation and live your own life. then, you pray for the best. In my situation, he killed himself, so the best did not happen.

I remember his parents cutting him off from the money after like the 10th involuntary hospitalization. His insurance had long since expired and they had spent several hundred thousand dollars, which they could afford. Imagine how they must feel even though they likely made the right decision because he would check himself out of most involuntary hospitalizations.

The whole thing was just so dark.

[Betsy]

Throwing these out there ~ for discussion.

Remember when Michael Jackson came to court in his pajamas? (Supposedly, it was planned. The pajamas got all the press...and not the damaging testimony given that day.)

S'pse Brittney did the wacko stuff to get the press off of her Little Sister and Mom? I do remember something being said about putting her on a 72 hour hold....so the episode must have been more serious.

The Doctor Phil (Headline: Posse-comes-to-the-Rescue-of-Dr.-Phil's-Ratings)... I find so incredibly arrogant. If he truly wanted to help, wouldn't he have found a more "quiet" way to accomplish his goal? The star-struck staff at the hospital ... (remember the George Clooney hospital episode?) ... hopefully have learned a lesson too.

In closing, thank you to those who posted news stories and have added personal insight. It is appreciated and enlightening.

[sara1998]

^^^

At some point, you have to leave the situation and live your own life. then, you pray for the best. In my situation, he killed himself, so the best did not happen.

It's very hard to get to that point. I wasn't able to draw the line. He drew it for me.

I have sympathy for Spears, just because I've lived with a similar person. She has to want to come out of it herself. No one, not even those who love her most, will be able to help her until she's willing to help herself.

Do I like the music Spears produced? No. Do I agree with the acts she's recently carried out, especially while with children? No. But, does this make her trash and a waste of human life. Absolutely not. It only makes her human, and DavidMN... I hope you never slip up in life, because it's so easy to judge and be judged. I would hate for people to call you trash because you can't seem to pull yourself together.

[strandinthewind]

^^^

In a much less severe way (this guy was just my friend as opposed to a spouse I had a kid with) - my friend drew line for us as well. In other words, even though I knew I had done all I could, there is that part of me that thinks I should have done more. When you are in it, you think that you have reached the end of your rope, etc. Then, they kill themselves and you feel like an a$$ because you think was that really the end of my rope and how selfish were my actions. Couldn't I have given one more day, one more phone call, etc. But, what is done is done. So, making peace my, not his, decision is the lynchpin. That last sentence is FAR more than ten words and anger plays heavily into it.

Interestingly, I find myself forgetting the bad stuff or putting it into a comical setting. Sometimes, we'll all talk about what an eccentric he was, which in the South means just plumb nuts. It is easier, and IMO somewhat more fitting, that way as that is the way he likely would want to be remembered.

[SuzeQuze]

At the gym last nite on one of those Entertainment news shows I saw Dr. Phil and he is not airing the Spears episode right now. So to his credit (despite my negative feelings toward him) he realizes this would just be damaging.

It is hard but you really do have to let go of self-destructive people. When does helping become meddling? You have to be helpful but not compromise your own health and well-being, because if you make yourself sick then you're no good to anyone.

It must be very difficult to live with the kind of guilt you have after a close person commits suicide. I had a family member who I heard was suicidal and I helped that person get help but he still struggles and I have to detach and pray. Fortunately I don't think he is that depressed anymore. If he'd actually been successful with it I would have been totally devastated and consumed by guilt. People who've come through that amaze me.

[strandinthewind]

^^^

I am far more cynical than you are -- I think Dr. Phil canceled his show because the Spears threatened to sue him or take some other action. Or. they promised on in the future where they would actually appear as they canceled on this one. I do not give him any credit for being nice.

[David]

One symptom, being up for days, was documented in the press regarding her state when people arrived at her home.The desire to forgo sleep is indeed one of the classic symptoms. That's what I was interested in hearing about. I don't follow the Britney news, so I wanted to know why the diagnosis of bipolar disorder, presumably based on symptoms. Is there bipolar disorder in the Spears family? Are there periods of normal mood & functioning in between dips in mood? Is there a mixed-state diagnosis? Is there a personality disorder? Not everyone who drinks booze & does drugs & then goes on benders has a mood disorder, psychiatrists insist.

[trackaghost]

Throwing these out there ~ for discussion.

Remember when Michael Jackson came to court in his pajamas? (Supposedly, it was planned. The pajamas got all the press...and not the damaging testimony given that day.)

S'pse Brittney did the wacko stuff to get the press off of her Little Sister and Mom? I do remember something being said about putting her on a 72 hour hold....so the episode must have been more serious.


I've heard rumours it's a publicity stunt and she's making money from it all. It wouldn't surprise me at this point, but I still think she's disturbed.


^^^

I am far more cynical than you are -- I think Dr. Phil canceled his show because the Spears threatened to sue him or take some other action. Or. they promised on in the future where they would actually appear as they canceled on this one. I do not give him any credit for being nice.

I agree. I think the fact he's said that he's not airing the episode "right now" just means he's bowed to public pressure. On the news over here though, they said that Britney's parents asked him to speak to her. I don't know how true that is but given that her mother negotiated a huge million dollar deal for the exclusive rights to the story and photos of the baby the day after it was announced Jamie Lynn was pregnant should indicate how her mind works.

[strandinthewind]

. . . I don't know how true that is but given that her mother negotiated a huge million dollar deal for the exclusive rights to the story and photos of the baby the day after it was announced Jamie Lynn was pregnant should indicate how her mind works.

In that instance, which differs from BS' mania, I do not blame Lynn Spears or Ashlee Spears for that matter. Ignoring the separate tennage pregnancy issue (hard to do I know) - the fact of the matter is someone stood to gain millions off of this unexpected pregnancy. So, I say the mother of the child should as opposed to OK magazine getting the scoop for free via some press release. I mean it is Ashlee's story to tell and if people are dumb enough to pay for it, I hold no ill will toward her for that. Again, I am not talking about the issues of teenage prenancy.

[trackaghost]

In that instance, which differs from BS' mania, I do not blame Lynn Spears or Ashlee Spears for that matter. Ignoring the separate tennage pregnancy issue (hard to do I know) - the fact of the matter is someone stood to gain millions off of this unexpected pregnancy. So, I say the mother of the child should as opposed to OK magazine getting the scoop for free via some press release. I mean it is Ashlee's story to tell and if people are dumb enough to pay for it, I hold no ill will toward her for that. Again, I am not talking about the issues of teenage prenancy.

That's all well and good but it's months before Jamie Lynn gives birth, more than enough time to be thinking about things like that. Her mother didn't even wait a day after the news was announced to begin negotiating deals rather than just be there for her daughter in what must be a difficult time. Maybe that's just me, but I wouldn't be thinking of photo deals if I just found out my 16-year-old was pregnant.

Btw, you do know you've been writing Ashlee instead of Jamie Lynn? :D

[skcin]

Just wanted to clarify that I think she's a pig & I f*cking hate her because I don't think she has much talent & she's a poor role model for young girls, NOT because she has mental problems. And, as most of you know, I've been posting the phrase tongue in cheek for years now. Just didn't want any newbies thinking I'm a heartless bitch. :wavey:

This whole thing does piss me off in that it's news at all. Sarah pointed out that the rich & famous people have problems too, and being a celebrity doesn't make you perfect & happy - well, it goes both ways. "Normal" people go through this stuff all the time, she's not special because it's happening to her. Leave it in the tabloids & Entertainment Tonight, and get it off of the scrolling news updates on CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, etc. The U.S. is at war, and we have a heated political race going on, but this is high priority news that we all must know? Please. THAT'S what bothers me.

[strandinthewind]

. . . Maybe that's just me, but I wouldn't be thinking of photo deals if I just found out my 16-year-old was pregnant.

I think, with respect, no one would care if that were the case. I think with celebrities it is different. She's going to have to start going to the doctor. When she does that, third parties know. That doctor's secretary who makes $25,000 a year might think twice about the $500,000 or more (that's at least 20 years (right at her whole whole lifetime of working) salary mind you) she could make without it ever being known that she did it. I know that is horrible, but it is what the Spears have to think about. Would it have been better for it to happen that way or for the girl to do it her way and maintain some degree of control? I think celebrities have to think like that, which is sad I guess.

Also, I believe the Spears girl had known for awhile that she was knocked up. So, any bonding with or care from her mother likely occured then. I think they then approached how to break the news, which makes sense to me.

Then again, I do not think it is such a horrible thing for a 16 year old multi millionaire to get pregnant - again, I think the vast majority of 16 year old girls are having sex; so, I do not label her a slut, etc. It is not as if she is living in Harlem in a five floor walk up with no climate control :shrug: That child will want for nothing. Perhaps it will suffer emotionally, but that likelihood exists in all cases at all ages and income doesn't it?

Btw, you do know you've been writing Ashlee instead of Jamie Lynn? :D

My blonde roots are a showin' :o

[strandinthewind]

. . . Just didn't want any newbies thinking I'm a heartless bitch. :wavey:

Just the Newbies :shrug:

:wavey:

[David]

This whole thing does piss me off in that it's news at all. Sarah pointed out that the rich & famous people have problems too, and being a celebrity doesn't make you perfect & happy - well, it goes both ways. "Normal" people go through this stuff all the time, she's not special because it's happening to her. Leave it in the tabloids & Entertainment Tonight, and get it off of the scrolling news updates on CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, etc. The U.S. is at war, and we have a heated political race going on, but this is high priority news that we all must know? Please. THAT'S what bothers me.Word.


(Is that the right word in this context?)

[Sarah]

This whole thing does piss me off in that it's news at all. Sarah pointed out that the rich & famous people have problems too, and being a celebrity doesn't make you perfect & happy - well, it goes both ways. "Normal" people go through this stuff all the time, she's not special because it's happening to her. Leave it in the tabloids & Entertainment Tonight, and get it off of the scrolling news updates on CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, etc. The U.S. is at war, and we have a heated political race going on, but this is high priority news that we all must know? Please. THAT'S what bothers me.

Um, actually that is pretty much what I said. :confused:

The picture that shows all the photographers outside of her ambulance makes me want to throw up. This **** goes on with so many other families... in every city, in every state. Why is national media forcing us to form an opinion on this? Can't it at least stay with entertainment news? In terms of the world, Britney Spears doesn't really effing matter.

Newshounds = Bottom-feeders.




It's sad isn't it? This is world news? Look at what's happening in Kenya at the moment, riots, mass deaths etc, just to mention one thing and this is equally considered world news? Sickening and depressing.

Yeah, really.

Maybe if we all close our eyes whenever a picture of Britney comes up.... and maybe if never speak her name again... it will all just go away. :laugh:


And yes, David. Your "word" is right. You could have also said "for reals"! ;)

[David]

And yes, David. Your "word" is right. You could have also said "for reals"! ;)See? I'm trying to learn all the newest speechways of our youth! :thumbsup:

I probably come across like an old turd trying to be hip or with-it, but what do they expect from a 68-year-old creaker?! :mad:
(heads to his rocker-recliner for a nap)

[SuzeQuze]

Word.


(Is that the right word in this context?)

Me too. I do not like that.

[SuzeQuze]

The desire to forgo sleep is indeed one of the classic symptoms. That's what I was interested in hearing about. I don't follow the Britney news, so I wanted to know why the diagnosis of bipolar disorder, presumably based on symptoms. Is there bipolar disorder in the Spears family? Are there periods of normal mood & functioning in between dips in mood? Is there a mixed-state diagnosis? Is there a personality disorder? Not everyone who drinks booze & does drugs & then goes on benders has a mood disorder, psychiatrists insist.

It looks like there's been a lot of speculation and hearsay leading to this theory. Psychologists questioned by the press have said she "could be" bipolar. And people "close to her" have said she has severe mood swings, had post-partum depression, and has been on anti-anxiety meds. Here's an article from People http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20169680,00.html?eref=ew So I don't think there is anything conclusive out there, it's all just speculation at this point.

[Mad4stevie]

The desire to forgo sleep is indeed one of the classic symptoms. That's what I was interested in hearing about. I don't follow the Britney news, so I wanted to know why the diagnosis of bipolar disorder, presumably based on symptoms. Is there bipolar disorder in the Spears family? Are there periods of normal mood & functioning in between dips in mood? Is there a mixed-state diagnosis? Is there a personality disorder? Not everyone who drinks booze & does drugs & then goes on benders has a mood disorder, psychiatrists insist.


Signs of mania include: lack of sleep, excessive spending, excessive drinking, excessive drugging, sexual promiscuity, delusions of granduer, extreme agitation, general reckless behavior that puts themselves at risk, insistance that they have "never felt better in their life", and the list goes on.

Normally if people die during a manic phase it is because of reckless behavior that could be caused by delusions of granduer or from an excessive amount of alcohol or drugs.

The problem with bipolar is that if you give a normal SSRI anti-depresant to a bipolar person, it will likely create a manic state. This is exactly what occurred with my ex. Bipolar is not easy to diagnose and usually involves outlining an historical accounting of mood swings and possible triggers to the mood swings. My ex was triggered by the change of seasons (depressed in fall and winter; mania starts around May) and by the pressure from his Ph.D. dissertation.

Because there is no cure, it is rough going in the beginning because you have to try different medication combos to attempt to control the swing.