Parents of Bipolar Children Support Group

Hi. My 15 year old was just diagnosed BP, type II. She is currently on lamictal, building up to 100 mg- she's at 50 now. I am going through sort of a grieving process as I cope with her diagnosis. Like many of the kids i read about here, she is brilliant but unmotivated and self destructive.

Her illness has taken a toll on my marriage. I am remarried with a 5 year old from the new marriage. My husband struggles with her out of control behavior, thinking her dad and I are way too easy on her.

I'm glad I found this group. Thanks for reading.

Hey keltie, welcome to the forum. My 15 yr old son was just diagnosed in February and I also feel like I am grieving too. The forum is the place to be for support and info.

We can understand your situation about your husband thinking you and your ex are too easy on her. It's easy to pass judgement when you may not be actively involved in the decision making. Its a tough situation to be in. But we're here for you so post a lot and vent when you need to. We all do it!

Welcome to our group. You'll find a lot of support here.

Have you and your husband considered therapy to help you deal with all the issues involved?

Thanks so much for the warm welcome. My husband and I have been to therapy, but not since she's been diagnosed. We've been thru so many therapists- it's so frustrating when you can't find the right one. I do think it's time to try again, though.

Welcome Keltie,

I'm new too but have yet to get my daughter properly diagnosed. My husband & I are going thru the same thing, he's her step-dad. Hang in there, it'll all work out

Welcome Keltie: Maybe with a diagnose now, the therapist can help you and your husband get a better understanding about your daughter and her illness. The people on here are my therapist, lol...my daughter doesnt so much display depression, her's is mostly Manic and ODD, CD, and mood swings....boy boy boy they will take you through a hoop and back again...its almost like hanging onto a train from the cubose flapping in the air, while the train is speeding down the tracks as fast as it can go, then suddenly stop..rest, and here you go again...we are here for you...Promise!!!

I agree with Babydntuno. Now that you have a diagnosis, find a therapist that can specifically deal with BP. Make sure they deal with ALOT of BP kids. Otherwise, you end up with a therapist that just keeps addressing drama after drama instead of getting to the real problem. Hope to see you more.

*** welcome ****

AMEN TO THAT!!!!

my daughter has yet to be properly diagnosed with BP they have labled her with intermittent explosive disorder...I spoke to another pyscharist and he says she is but doenst except my insurance...How does everyone manage to make it through the day? the only time that I have peace is when shes at her partial hospitalization program....the nights are a living hell with her and my 3 yro grandson lives with me I hate for him to witness her behavior its so terrifying for him

Hello, Mine either, they're treating her for ADHD & depression, but I'm hoping to be able to get a 3rd & 4th opinion next week. If you ever wanna trade "war stories", feel free to PM me anytime.