Bipolar Child Disorder

It's tough having a child with bipolar disorder, but it's not hopeless.

Bipolar child disorder can have devastating affects on a child as well as the other family members. Unfortunately, it is often misunderstood, leading to unnecessary suffering for the sick child. Out of control behaviors such as yelling and screaming, out and out refusal to cooperate, verbal abuse, excessive energy, unexplainable exhaustion and crying jags are some of the symptoms which parents are faced with and want to extinguish. Rather than receiving appropriate psychiatric treatment, which requires mood stabilizing medications, the child with bipolar child disorder is punished in an attempt to put a stop to the madness that surrounds him and his family.

As Dr. Opler said to me years ago when the situation looked hopeless, "the glass is half full." The idea that the mentally ill can only live a life of marginal existence is no longer the case. With proper diagnosis, the new arsenal of medications available and psychotherapy, life can be good. The stigma associated with the illness is finally lifting. With today's enlightened attitude and the "recovery model" being championed, people can get better.

People reading this book often recommend it to others because the story is compelling and inspirational. Other families in the same situation have become less frightened and more willing to seek help for their loved ones. They realize it is the illness that has changed their loved one and not the person suffering its symptoms choosing to remain sick. Families struggling with the hopelessness and despair, so often associated with mental illness, come to understand that with patience and appropriate help, there is the realistic hope of recovery.

As the authors, we have tried to tell the story in an honest and blunt way. There is no attempt to "sugar coat" the events and emotions surrounding my daughter Rebecca's struggle. The truths spoken often leave the reader shocked and incredulous. I am glad that the un-relentless search for help that I went through, my unconditional love, strength and commitment to find the answer for my daughter is uplifting. The total dedication and commitment of my daughter's psychiatrist was inspirational to me, and I hope it is to you too.

Sincerely,
Harryet Ehrlich, Co-Author

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