Survival Strategies for Parenting Children with Bipolar Disorder

Up until five years ago, the professional community did not think that bipolar disorder occurred in children. Children with symptoms of bipolar disorder were diagnosed as "severe ADHD", "depressed" or "oppositional defiant". Now, as it is being increasingly diagnosed, George Lynn offers a clear, practical advice on recognising the symptoms, understanding medication and accessing the necessary support at school as well as the managing the day-to-day challenges of parenting a child with bipolar disorder. As it is frequently found in combination with ADHD, Tourette Syndrome and Asperger's syndrome, the author draws on case-studies from his own psychotherapeutic practice to show what these conditions have in common, how they differ, and how they related to each other. This book tackles the most difficult decisions parents can face, including whether to involve police or consider hospitalisation if their children are a danger to themselves and their families. At he same time, it emphasises the positive qualities these children often have and illustrates how their gifts and abilities can build their self-esteem and help them function better in society. However severe the child's symptoms, this book will provide guidance, support and inspiration for parents and carers as well as being a useful resource for professionals working with the families who suffer as a result of this disorder.