Children with Bipolar Disorder

I have 2 out of 4 sons with bipolar disorder. My family and my husband's family both have bipolar disorder. Yes, my poor kids, too. I told my husband we are a genetic nightmare! Who knew? We never ever dreamt our kids would have these issues.

The Bipolar Child is the bible of child bipolar disorder. I refer to it all the time. The first time I read it I laughed and cried. Dr. Papolos must have been peeking in the windows of my house and watching my son. He describes my 10 yr. old to a tee. I knew there was something wrong when he was only 3. It took about 3 years for me to finally figure out what was wrong. The psychiatrist asked me what I thought was wrong and I told her bipolar disorder and she said she agreed. She was glad to have a parent that was accepting of the diagnosis. Most parents want to deny the fact and it only prolongs treatment options.

Discipline is difficult. I feel like I must be the worst parent on the planet. I try to be consistent but his moods are not consistent. He is a rapid cycler and has mixed states at times. This makes him very emotionally labile. Crying one minute and an hour later giddy and hyper and laughing. I use time out a lot. When he rages I put him in his room. My youngest son seems less severe. He presents differently. He is not as defiant. My older son has become more defiant as he has gotten older.

I could write you a novel. Feel free to pm me with any questions or just to sound off. We can swap war stories. I feel your pain and know what you are going through. I will be glad to offer you any suggestions. Let me know how I can help.