Alex”, 29, is under the jurisdiction of your local provincial Mental Health Review Board on your acute care

Alex”, 29, is under the jurisdiction of your local provincial Mental Health Review Board on your acute care ward. He’s in breach of a disposition because of repeated alcohol and marijuana use; “Alex” is also diagnosed with bipolar disorder and is currently prescribed olanzapine 10 mg and lithium 800 mg daily.

He experiences mania when he uses substances, and the incident that led to his review occurred when he was under the influence (he racked up over $100,000 in property damages). He uses substances and alcohol due to the negative side effects (weight gain) from his prescribed medications. “Alex” is divorced and recently obtained regular visits with his kids. He holds down a steady job in construction, but he’s worried about losing his employment because he sometimes misses shifts.

QUESTIONS

What is the relationship between addiction and mental illness?
What assessments would be completed?
What medications and lab work should be done?
In terms of Alex’s stay on the unit, what are some safety precautions?
What is the criteria for involuntary admission in your British Columbia?