Now that things have calmed down a bit at this end, I was just reviewing some of the responses to this thread.
Firstly, Joe mcclaine; pleeeeeese put me back on your ignore list!! You may believe that my choice of topic is inappropriate; I feel that your blatent hostility is inappropriate - yet again.
Secondly, my friend is totally anonymous on here, so I do not feel I have betrayed any confidences.
Thirdly, it is useful to remind ourselves that there is not anything shameful in mental illness. It is an illness that happens to affect the brain. Yes, it's distressing for all involved, and can be downright scary, but there cannot be any shame attached to the person afflicted.
Fourthly, my opening post did not seek a diagnosis, that's a hit and miss job for the professionals at the best of times.
Fifthly, to those who gave genuine advice or opinions thank you.
Sixthly, for to those who chose to make no comment but are well aware of why I posted as I did in utter desperation, (and statistically, there will be many) - well, you've been there, done that, and you know how it is. Any hint or clue as to what might help, what might calm things, would be gold dust. Those members will also be well aware that it isn't just a case of getting appropriate medical intervention!!! They won't intervene until there is a serious attempt to commit violence either against another or suicide wise. I haven't yet had to deal with the situation where the sufferer already has that history, maybe then they are a bit more willing to intervene, but believe me, until that happens, you are on your own dealing with this.....a wait and see game. Tough if that first serious enough violence does actually result in serious injury or death.
Been to see my friend twice so far and she isn't doing too bad. Still confused, but generally accepting that hospital is a good place for her to be - ish. The hospital is actually pretty pleasant in do far as it can be.