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.
It is impossible to explain my circumstances in their entirety without writing a novel- so I will do my best to sum-up. (Not an easy task while in a manic episode)
I have 50% legal and physical custody of my 4 yr old daughter and full custody of my 15 yr old son. I am a single mom with very little support from family or friends. I have treatment resistant Bipolar I, rapid cycle, with psychotic features. In addition I have co-morbid anxiety disorders AND fibromyalgia. In a nutshell, EVERYTHING stresses me out- resulting in chronic pain, frustration and mood episodes. I am sensitive to light and sound- anything loud makes my skin crawl. Needless to say- my kids have become a primary trigger for me. The screeches and squeals that are adored by other parents send me over the edge. No one seems to have any solutions for me, so I figured I would ask here to see if anyone had any HELPFUL input.
I have popped every pill, I have tried alternative therapies, nothing gets my symptoms under control, except minimizing stress, spending time in nature and living a very sedate and controlled lifestyle. What I need to stay stable does not co-exist well with having kids. So what is a mother to do? My choices are stability OR motherhood. In my case, they are mutually exclusive.
I have held onto my title of "Mom" for 8 years at the expense of my health. My health has deteriorated to the point that I am not coping or functioning well. I am facing financial problems and possible homelessness. Things that used to come naturally for me have become very difficult. My Dr. keeps assuring me that having chronic illness isn't a life sentence, but she has yet to find a treatment that works to control my symptoms. Kids don't stop growing up just because mom gets sick. I can't put them on hold while I try to get my head sorted out.
So in the best interests of my children I am considering leaving the parenting up to others, since I am no longer able to cope with the stresses of motherhood. Is this the right thing to do? My son would go to my parents and my daughter would go to my ex- rather, my ex's parents, since she suffers from depression and appears to have no interest in being a parent. I have no other friends or family that could help at this time.
I have so many questions swarming around in my head like a hive of angry killer bees. Will my kids resent me? Will I ever be able to be a good mom again? Will I lose my parental rights? Please- anyone who has struggled with this kind of issue, share your wisdom of experience with me. I am at my wit's end and I need help... NOW! I can't hold out much longer and I need to make a decision. Your advise is welcome and appreciated.
I have 50% legal and physical custody of my 4 yr old daughter and full custody of my 15 yr old son. I am a single mom with very little support from family or friends. I have treatment resistant Bipolar I, rapid cycle, with psychotic features. In addition I have co-morbid anxiety disorders AND fibromyalgia. In a nutshell, EVERYTHING stresses me out- resulting in chronic pain, frustration and mood episodes. I am sensitive to light and sound- anything loud makes my skin crawl. Needless to say- my kids have become a primary trigger for me. The screeches and squeals that are adored by other parents send me over the edge. No one seems to have any solutions for me, so I figured I would ask here to see if anyone had any HELPFUL input.
I have popped every pill, I have tried alternative therapies, nothing gets my symptoms under control, except minimizing stress, spending time in nature and living a very sedate and controlled lifestyle. What I need to stay stable does not co-exist well with having kids. So what is a mother to do? My choices are stability OR motherhood. In my case, they are mutually exclusive.
I have held onto my title of "Mom" for 8 years at the expense of my health. My health has deteriorated to the point that I am not coping or functioning well. I am facing financial problems and possible homelessness. Things that used to come naturally for me have become very difficult. My Dr. keeps assuring me that having chronic illness isn't a life sentence, but she has yet to find a treatment that works to control my symptoms. Kids don't stop growing up just because mom gets sick. I can't put them on hold while I try to get my head sorted out.
So in the best interests of my children I am considering leaving the parenting up to others, since I am no longer able to cope with the stresses of motherhood. Is this the right thing to do? My son would go to my parents and my daughter would go to my ex- rather, my ex's parents, since she suffers from depression and appears to have no interest in being a parent. I have no other friends or family that could help at this time.
I have so many questions swarming around in my head like a hive of angry killer bees. Will my kids resent me? Will I ever be able to be a good mom again? Will I lose my parental rights? Please- anyone who has struggled with this kind of issue, share your wisdom of experience with me. I am at my wit's end and I need help... NOW! I can't hold out much longer and I need to make a decision. Your advise is welcome and appreciated.
raisiing her, yet she had no qualms about recieving the love and affection her children gave her. What is more common, is where kids love their mom, just cuz she's mom. they would prefer being with you more than anyone. As long as you are not abusive or neglectful. Which may be how u feel and what u r struggling with. But just don't make a rash decision.
As a Mother myself. I would half to put my children over all well- being 1st.
I would call my children - lets say at 6pm everyday.
I would get them cell phones.
I would reduce my visitation down to part of summer mo's.
I would write & send cards to them at least once a mo..
It's only natural for us to feel guilty in this situration & throught out thier childhood & teen yrs. But we half to know & keep reminding ourselves that we did what was best for our children. That's what all mothers do.
The decision must be yours.
While you have your children w you. you might opt to go into low income houseing.
Your children will have a place to stay when they come to visit.
This might take some of stress off you.
I would sign up for meals on wheels & obtain food assistance for myself.
Your parents can assist your son in obtaining food assistance for him self.
I would apply for SSI or SSDI. after submitting application I would obtain an atty to handle the case for me.
Some Atty will get thier fee when thier client are granted SSI or SSDI.
With SSI or SSDI a person can obtain medicaid &/or medicare medical insurance benifits.
There are other programs - agentcys that will assist w phone service & uilitys.
we covered rent,grocerys, insurance & options.
Last night I stoled my next door neighbour waste cans. I don't know what he does w them at night other than drag them back & fourth on his blocked covered yard.
My neighbour across the street rakes her gravel driveway before 7AM. I knew where she kept her rake outside her shed.lol, ya the 1 that's missing,lol
Here's a better 1. my neighbour bf truck sounds like a jet landing when he comes to visit her. Oh my how did all those potatoes get in his muffler ( truck doesn't have tail pipes) LOL.
Keep us posted,k
X's
I granted my ex-husband full custodial rights. I got treatment and I got sober. My kids are still with their dad and step-mom. Yes, I miss them daily and wish I was more of a part of their lifes, but they have a good life, and now they have a mom that is here for them. It is
difficult but worth it. My children are healthy and happy and that's all that counts.