does anyone have any details on extreme manic bi-polar disorders? my x was diagnosed & he's scaring our  kid
451252
Do you honestly feel that he could be violent? Was he ever threatening and violent with you?\nBi-Polar (manic depression) causes periods of extreme down moods followed by extreme highs. It won't cause him to be violent unless he already has it in him and you will know deep down whether or not he has got it in him.\nI know you are exremely worried. The only thing I can say is to try and keep an eye on the situation and maybe keep a record of the phone calls and any other abuse she may recieve. The more you have the more the police will help in these situations if it comes to that.   xx
779262
If you haven't yet, read The Explosive Child. \n\nIf your daughter is in fact bipolar, the greatest gift you can give her is early intervention. Doctors tend to be hesitant about giving children that diagnosis, so when they do, there tends to be a good reason for it. \n\nYou might want to check out the books The Bipolar Child and If Your Child Is Bipolar.\n\nI feel for you, this is a tough road to travel. I myself am bipolar and it began in childhood. I think my life could have turned out significantly different if I had been effectively treated back then. Now we are trying to pinpoint what is going on with my 11 year old son, the diagnosis is still in the air. He's been in various forms of treatment since started he was 5. His problems clearly are quite outside the range of "normal", even for a difficult child. We are now trying different meds, but I have a lot of conflicting feelings about it. \n\nI read up on childhood bipolar and it leaves me in tears because it explains why my life was such hell from as far back as I can remember. And what a relief that it turns out there is a name for it and it wasn't that I was this horrible, impossible child. A lot of my behavior wasn't something I had control of.\n\nI wish you luck at finding the answers and helping your daughter the best way you can. Just know, although it often feels like it, you are not alone in what you are going through.
558801
Bipolar disorder is _not_ known as maniac disorder, but rather manic depression.\n\nIf he has had problems with overactivity and depression both since the age of 5, it may be that he doesn't have bipolar but rather a combiniation of something like ADHD and depression. Such an early onset is very rare for both depression and bipolar however.\n\nIf he does have bipolar disorder, lithium is probably his best option. Therapies such as CBT can help to an extent, but treating the mania aspect particularly can be difficult.\n\nIf he has depressive disorder, a combination treatment of drugs and cognitive behaviour therapy is likely to work best, based on what studies have found in many, many people suffering from depression. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and tetracyclics are the best/most modern/least side effects.\nLithium isn't very good as far as side effects go. However, it is the best drug treatment out there for bipolar, acting as quite an effective mood stabliser. It does have some nasty side effects however - but it's not too badly tolerated on the whole and is probably better than being manic depressive!\n\nIf he is just depressive, antidepressants these days are very good. I don't know of any long-term problems that persist with taking them and although if you stop taking them, you may go through mild withdrawal, they are not addictive. \nI have a degree in psychology and also suffer from depression myself. At the moment, I am taking a small dose of mirtazapene and have suffered very few side effects from it, which were well tolerated and disappeared within a couple of weeks of taking it.\n\nDon't be scared of taking psychotrophic medication! If it fixes or helps the problem, it's really no different to taking pain killers for a headache or putting a caste on a broken leg. \nDon't worry about the fact that it affects brain chemistry - if your son has depression problems, it will only help to correct them. It won't change who he is at the core but it will help him to better tolerate life.\n\nDepending on his age, it may not be a good idea to put him on antidepressants for a few reasons that you should talk over with your doctor - I suggest seeing a psychiatrist. Don't trust a GP to tell you everything you need to know. You should see a specialist, especially if you don't have the training to know what to do yourself. See a psychiatrist to talk about medication options and a psychologist to talk about behavioural interventions. Behavioural therapy has been showed to be as effective as medication and longer lasting, but better than either therapy or medication on their own is a combination treatment, especially at first!\nAntidepressants can give someone the energy/motivation to work on their therapy. This is an important consideration, especially if your son is sleeping all the time.\n\nYou could also consider bright light therapy - if nothing else, try to get him outdoors for a while in the mornings.\nExercise can also be of benefit. You'll probably have to drag him out, kicking, screaming and crying but if he can get some light to moderate exercise in the sun, it may help his mood a little.
694910
In children, it is often difficult to distinguish between bipolar and ADD/ADHD, so it may be worth getting a second opinion. If you haven't read it, can I also suggest you get a copy of the Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide (Amazon link below). It may also be worth looking at http://www.crazyboards.org as you will get some good advice there.
998192
Your child's school system should have some programs in place to start you out. Do not hesitate to go to the guidance counselor,school psychologist or social worker, his/her teacher, and the principal---they have a vat of resources before them. They will probably recommend that you consult your child's pediatrician who will place your child on some sort of medication to start managing his/her behavior. \nIf you have found that you are getting nowhere in the education arena, don't give up---your child can get help elsewhere. The Easter Seals Society, a local Child Study Center, the Mental Health/Mental Retardation(MHMR), your county hospital and any disabilities assistance program in your state are good sources of help. Also, don't leave out websites that address these conditions--just type in bipolar, or obsessive compulsive disorder into the search box and it will lead you somewhere. Don't give up, it is a long road, but you can get the help you need. I used to work with teens who had emotional disorders, and although it was difficult, they were getting help through the program they were in. It does take a lot of footwork, however. You can get to the place of normalcy,it just takes time.
1051699
Find a local hospital where your daughter lives and speak with some therapists. They will know the protocals of what you can do. She can cause harm to  herself or others with out her meds. Being Bipolar is not something to be ignored. Good luck to you and her \n\nAs for Quiet Riot over there with no words of wisdom......Is this your first time on a computer little girl? Does mommy know your playing with it??? GROW UP!!
1103901
Like all the others that answered yes and gave reason! I agree with all of them!! I have the experience! My boyfriend is bipolar and suffers from depression anxiety, anger,and he also has a sleeping disorder! Me on the other hand haven't been diagnosed for any of that except that i have a mental illness called epilepsy! My son is 2yrs old! Were all healthy and happy!! It just takes support like everyone has said!!! Don't stereotype us!!!
424774
I was diagnosed borderline.. /by polar about a year ago... they put me on Saroquel and I'm a lot better now.  I know I was hard to live/deal with.  You just have to be patient if you love the person.  Saroquel was a life saver for me though.
902736
My husband also is bipolar. If he is not getting treatment; (which it sounds like even if he is, it is not effective); then do not pursue the relationship. Things will only get worse. With effective treatment (medication) and counseling you both can have a happy, stable relationship within which to raise your child. Placing God into that equation will really give you a head start.\nCheck out mayclinic.com for more info on bipolar symptoms and treatment. Good luck, and congratulations on you baby.
1046928
My husband suffered with it, when I didn't. You could ask your partner if you can go with her when she see the GP, or if shes not too keen on you being there at the same time, make an appointment to see the doctor yourself, and ask them for advice on what you can do to help her and fo some more info on the the illness. I know it's not nice, I've been there supporting someone else and I thought I'd be relying on them for support. I'm now 6 months pregnant with my 3rd and suffering with pre-natal depression which I've only just brought myself to have diagnosed. Get help for both of you, together or on your own and you'll all be just fine. Parenting is tough enough at the best of times without having to struggle blindly not knowing what to do. Good Luck my friend, I'm sure you'll a great parent.
396611
I hope that one of the links below will be what you are looking for. I am a 46 year old male who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. I know how you feel and that it is good to have someone to talk to. Good luck. I wish you well!
791417
My heart goes out to you and your family. I've been married to the same wonderful man for thirty-one years. Twice prior to my knowing him he tried to kill himself. Since we have been together he has made 4 more attempts on his life. I don't know where you are from but most places have mental health assocations. They can help you to understand medications, patiants rights. For my husband I am his health care rep. when he can't speak-up for himself I have the legal right to do this . I got him to give me power of attorney so I can deal with his disabilty money and all the red tape that goes along with it. Your Mom's illness if she does have Bi-polar suicide is attempts can be a part of her illness. It is a long hard road and you need to seek help yourself so you can stay healthy enough to be an assistance in getting her the help she needs. There are support groups for families going thru what we both are. When my husband gets what I call imbalanced with his medicine it takes me giving him his meds. because he gets confused about days and times to take them. As we both turn 50 this year it seems like second nature to us to deal with his illness. His last attempt to take his life was last November. He was missing for 2days before he was found in a coma in our truck at a reststop we use to stop at a lot. It was very sad, I still am seeing a counslor myself to deal with learning who I am outside of his illness. Be careful not to become so involed you stop living like I have at times
974333
I'd take a look at http://www.crazyboards.org. There's a parenting section and a bipolar section there. I'm personally bipolar and no great fan of that diagnosis in teenagers, let alone kids as young as 6, but that's just me.
1021811
http://www.bipolarcentral.com/articles.asp\nhttp://www.bipolar.com/\n** This is very treatable, my Mom had it.. just make sure the person that is diag with this condition is not ashamed, not afraid, and gets support and help. Mental Illness is not taboo like before, tons of people men and women, have DEPRESSION and Mental Illness.. I hope this helps and truly... God Bless. I grew up in a home with this illness before they knew what it was.. So glad times have changed.\n\nArticles/Stories\nClick here for information about republishing.\n\nClick here to learn more about our contributing writers.\n\nFor Those With Bipolar \nFor Those Supporting Someone With Bipolar \nRelationships and Bipolar Disorder \nBipolar (General) \nMental Illness \nHealth and Wellness \nDepression \nMedication \nMoney Management \nLegal Issues \nSocial Security Disability \n Bipolar Stories \nStacey's Corner \nGaylene's Corner \nScott & Lori's Corner \nMichele Soloway's Corner \nConnie's Corner \nMiscellaneous Articles \nWriters Wanted! \n \n\nArticles For Those With Bipolar\nBenefits Of A Home Business For People That Have Bipolar Disorder - 4/21/06 \nHelp Your Doctor Help Treat Your Bipolar Disorder - 4/21/06 \nBipolar Disorder is NO EXCUSE! - 4/20/06 \nHow to Research Medication Quickly and Easily - 1/28/06 \nHoliday Safety And Bipolar Disorder - 12/24/05 \nAdvice For People With Bipolar Disorder: Just Say "No" To Holiday Stress - 12/16/05 \nHow To Avoid Being Alone During The Holidays - 12/13/05 \nAre You Cheap When It Comes to Bipolar Disorder? \nAre You Falling for "Bait"? \nThe Benefits Of Being A Participant In A Bipolar Study And How To Find These Clinical Studies \nBipolar Disorder Self-Care \nBipolar Disorder and Weight Gain \nChange Your Life By Getting Rid Of Negative People \nChildren - Should Bipolar Sufferers Have Them? \nDealing with Bipolar from a Weight Loss Perspective \nDo You Have a Bipolar Spectrum Disorder? \nDoctors That Treat Bipolar Disorder: Is there A Conspiracy? \nEliminating Stress As A Cause Of Episodes \nThe First Step to Successfully Managing Bipolar Disorder \nFour steps to understand and get help for bipolar disorder: \nGoing to Extremes: Bipolar Disorder \nHitting Rock Bottom In Order to Climb Back Up \nThe Holidays \nHow NOT to choose a therapist. \nHow Someone Bipolar Can Go From Being Wealthy To Homeless \nHow To Get the Most Out of Attending A Support Group Meeting \nHow to Locate Local Support Groups and Resources and Avoid the Hidden Dangers You May Experiences \nHow to Protect Yourself in the Age of Managed Care \nI Have Bipolar Disorder---It Doesn't Have Me \nIn Search of the Magic Bullet \nIt's Not A Sprint, It's A Marathon \nLife Events Can Trigger An Episode \nNine Ways To Make the Most of Your Support System \nPlaces You Can Turn \nThe Power of Language with Bipolar Disorder \nProblem Solving Tips for When You Feel Overwhelmed \nSuicide \nTen Mistakes People Who Have Bipolar Disorder Make \nWeeding Out False Friends \nWhy People With Bipolar Disorder Accomplish So Much \nWhy You Need to Take a Notebook to Your Next Doctor's Appointment \nArticles For Those Supporting Someone With Bipolar\nEnsure Success by Involving The Entire Team - 1/17/06 \nA Secret Key to Success With Bipolar Disorder - 1/11/06 \nTips For Holiday Travels For Supporters And Survivors Of Bipolar Disorder - 12/17/05 \nLifelong Supporters: Advice on How to Care for Someone with Bipolar Disorder - 12/16/05 \n10 Mistakes I Made with my Bi-Polar Son and 10 Things I Did Right \nA Perfect Child \nBipolar Disorder and How Supporters Can Help their Loved One While Helping Themselves \nBipolar Kids - It's Different! \nCan Children and Adolescents Have Bipolar Disorder? \nCaring for the Caregiver \nChild and Adolescent Bipolar Disorder: An Update from the National Institute of Mental Health \nDon't Argue With People During an Episode \nDon’t Make Yourself Sick Trying To Help Your Love
398652
Yes I know about it because the person is me.It used to be that I would wash my hands so much, that the skin would crack . And forget about picking up anything that was even remotely gross or dirty, I'd freak out and run to the sink and scrub for minutes at a time. I was driving my Husband crazy, and myself . So I got help. I went to a therapist and he put me on medication to ease the symptoms, and I see him to get a handle on this sometimes debilitating condition . The med. that worked for me was Prozac , which will also help with panic disorder. Get your Boy into the therapist as soon as possible .I'm sorry to say that it is unlikely that He will grow out of it . These things only get worse over time.Good luck, hope it all works out for You and your Son.
320213
You are obviously looking for the best advice possible, so please if you can do anything to rectify this situation then do it and as soon as possible. I am so proud of you even though I dont know you, for recognising that this man is in difficulty, please go to someone who can help him, go to his or indeed your Dr. and seek immediate advice. This is wrong, you know it I know it and I am sure every other user of this site will see it for what it is.  It is abuse of the worst kind.  I have a son with special needs, and this is my worst nightmare. I applaud your concern, now please get help for him....
864255
Well, first off, I must say that I am a little offended, because I didn't know that people were actually giving out this kind of advice. I am a bi-polar manic depressive, and I am marrying someone that is not. We have been together for 3 1/2 years already, and our relationship is fine. I wouldn't ever advise someone that they shouldn't marry someone they love just because they have bi-polar disorder. There is nothing wrong with us. We function just like everyone else, it's just that usually we need medication to help us do it. So called "normal" people have their own crutches instead of medication too...drinking, smoking, driving to fast, spending too much money, that kind of stuff. So what makes us so different that we shouldn't be able to marry people that the world has deemed "normal?"