Bipolar Disorder Support Group

Bipolar disorder is not just a single disorder, but a category of mood disorders marked by periods of abnormally high energy and euphoria, often accompanied by bouts of clinical depression. This is the place to talk about your experience with bipolar disorder, learn from others' experiences, and find support.

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There's a New Beeper in my Family

HannaHana
HannaHana
Unfortunately after years of seeing pdocs and tdocs, my son has finally landed the childhood BP dx. He is 7...and on top of it all he's got ADHD and ODD.

Needless to say, I'm at my wits end and don't know how the hell to handle him. It's hard to handle my own BP, never mind his too.

They just started him on Risperdal for his hallucinations.

Any advice, words of encouragement....anything, would be very much appreciated.

Thanks all.
tommymott
tommymott
I'd have a hard time coping with all that. I wouldn't think a diagnosis would change how you "handle" him. He's 7 and he depends on you to be the adult. Try to focus on aspects of treatment instead of getting overwhelmed by it all. It's probably important that you get some specific counseling too. Whatever's going on, make sure there's lots of love in the mix.
deleted_user
deleted_user
Oh Hanna, so sorry about your baby boy...Well, I too have a son and am always on the lookout for signs but so far there are none. I wish you peace and serenity during your trying times, I wish you patience and fortitude also. This won't be easy but with the right medications, he will be alright God willing... Maria J.
deleted_user
deleted_user
Hey Hanna,

I am not a parent, but I gave advice based on the mistakes my parents made.

Treat him like any other 7 year old boy, just make sure he takes his meds, and attends his doctors appointments. in that respect, you are his role model. Kids do what they see. Also, be on the lookout for if/when symptoms do present themselves and have a plan of action ready.

Also, get him connected to a therapist who is experienced with dealing with such issues in young children, that will make a huge difference.

Good luck.
deleted_user
deleted_user
I had my first depression when I was twelve.
I never received any medical help until I was thirty and I did that for myself.
In a way it is good news to be diagnosed early. With the right meds and therapy, your son may be spared a lot of ups and downs. I wish my parents would have recognized that there was something amiss with my behaviour and feelings.
Susan