Bipolar

I call Aaron my Dr. Jekyll / Mr. Hyde Child.
He can change his moods faster than you turn around.
There are times when I swear he is 2 children in one.
But I wouldn't trade him for anything in this world.
He is such a Gift from God.

I read the best book the name of the book is
"THE BIPOLAR CHILD."
It is written by Demitri Papolos, M.D., and Janice Papolos.
They are husband and wife.
This book also says it is The Definitive and Reassuring Guide to
Childhood's Most Misunderstood Disorder.

Another book I read truly touched my heart.
The name of that book is "HIS BRIGHT LIGHT"

The Story of Nick Traina by Danielle Steel.
This true story is about her son and his struggles with Bipolar
he committed suicide.

Facts About Childhood-Onset
Bipolar Disorder

What is childhood-onset bipolar disorder (COBPD),
and how does it differ from bipolar disorder (manic-depression) in adults?

All those with bipolar disorder experience mood swings that alternate from periods of severe highs (mania) to severe lows (depression). However, while these abnormally intense moods usually last for weeks or months in adults with the illness, children with bipolar disorder can experience such rapid mood swings that they commonly cycle many times within a day. The most typical pattern of cycling among those with COBPD, called ultra-ultra rapid or ultradian, is most often associated with low arousal states in the mornings followed by increases in energy towards late afternoon or evening.

It is not uncommon for the initial episode of COBPD to present itself as major depression. But as clinical investigators have followed the course of the disorder in children, they have observed a significant rate of transition from depression into bipolar mood states.

Is COBPD usually inherited?

Yes, one of the most important factors in establishing the diagnosis is family history. According to several recent studies, a history of mood disorders (particularly bipolar disorder) and/or alcoholism on both the maternal and paternal sides of a family appears to be commonly associated with COBPD.

How early in childhood does the disorder start?
What are some common early symptoms?

Many parents report that their children have seemed different since early infancy. They describe difficulty settling their babies, and they note that their children are easily over-responsive to sensory stimulation.
Sleep disturbances and night terrors are also commonly reported.

The Basics of Treatment

Bipolar disorder is a life long illness. The periods of mania and depression can occur over and over again. Bipolar disorder can often be effectively treated once it is diagnosed. Treatment is vital to prevent future episodes and decrease the suffering that accompanies the illness. Medication is used to alleviate the symptoms of bipolar disorder. The drawback to medication is that there are some side effects and risks. Mood stabilizing medications, such as Depakote, Lithium, Tegretol, are most commonly used to treat bipolar disorder. During periods of depression, antidepressant medications may be prescribed. Therapy is often effective in addition to medication treatment. Research has shown that group, art, music, and recreational therapy are helpful for people with bipolar disorder. Psychlogists help patients understand and cope with their illnesses. Hospitalization may be necessary when a person has a severe episode of either mania or depression.
Many people with bipolar disorder--even those with the most severe forms--can obtain substantial stabilization of their mood swings.

Juvenile Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder (JRCBD)

The term juvenile rapid cycling bipolar disorder (JRCBD) is applied to a group of manic-depressive young people who are free of continuous hypo manic/hyperactivity but manifest moment-to-moment, day-to-day ("all mixed days") of depressive moods, actions, and feelings interspersed with hostile anger, ranting, or rages. Juvenile rapid cycling bipolar disorder most often is evident during preschool years and worsens with aging to major depressive or manic episodes during the adolescent years.

General Information on Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depression, is a mental illness characterized by wide mood swings from mania (euphoric/irritable states) to depression (hopeless, unhappy states). A person with bipolar disorder usually returns to a normal mood in between episodes of mania and/or depression. Despite extensive investigation, we still do not know the exact cause of bipolar disorder. There are several theories about what causes the illness. The most popular theory argues that bipolar disorder is caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain. The brain is made up of nerve cells, called neurons, and chemicals, called neurotransmitters. According to this theory, an imbalance of one neurotransmitter, norepinephrine, is thought to cause the symptoms of bipolar disorder. It seems that there are unusually high levels of norepinephrine in a person's brain during manic episodes, and low levels during depressive episodes. Although researchers have many more questions to answer, current evidence suggests that a chemical imbalance in the brain causes the symptoms of bipolar disorder.
This can affect persons of any age or race. Five million people in this country alone suffer from a serious chronic brain disorder. These illnesses greatly affect family members and society in general. Mental illnesses are not the result of personal weakness, lack of character, or poor upbringing.

Most importantly, these brain disorders are treatable. As a diabetic takes insulin, most people with serious mental illness need medication to help control symptoms. Supportive counseling, self-help groups, housing, vocational rehabilitation, income assistance and other community services can also provide support and stability, leaving the focus on recovery.

There is a new book that a Mother/Friend I met online has written.
Her name is DR. Caroline C. McGee
It is called Matty the Moody Hermit Crab.
Over the course of one school year, Matt undergoes the onset, diagnosis
and treatment of this mental illness. His story is dramatic,
entertaining and sometimes humorous.
It is an adorable book that you can buy here.

Matt The Moody Hermit Crab

I also sent for a small booklet on the net, called Brandon and the Bipolar Bear it is a nice booklet approx. 20 pages with illustrations and larger print so that if your child can read he/she can read it themselves. But we read it to Aaron because he cannot read well yet. The story is short and to the point and gets on the child's level to let them know that they are not alone and that many other children feel the same way they do. I highly recommend sending for this you can order it from here.

Brandon and the Bipolar Bear

LINKS ON BIPOLAR

Information on Bipolar

Help With Bipolar

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder Sanctuary

B.P.S.O.

Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation

Bipolar Support Groups

Healthy Place

Bipolar Children and Teens

My Child Has Bipolar Disorder