The Bipolar Child, by Demitri Papolos, M.D., and Janice Papolos
by Kimberly Read I highly recommend The Bipolar Child: The Definitive and Reassuring Guide to Childhood's Most Misunderstood Disorder by Demitri Papolos, M.D. and Janice Papolos. This is an absolutely fantastic book for those who have a child with early onset bipolar disorder, who suspect it in their child, or who work with bipolar children. As a matter of fact, it is much more than just a book. It is the shot heard round the psychiatric world calling for allies in this war which is devastating families. It is a toolbox weighted with resources for these families. It is a support group at your fingertips filled with encouraging words from those intimately acquainted with this battle.
Are there members of your family with bipolar disorder, depression or alcoholism and you are beginning to wonder about your teen? Your first grader has been diagnosed with ADHD, but you just don't think the symptoms adequately describe his behavior? Your daughter's psychiatrist says she is too young to be diagnosed, but you know that you need help soon? You are not alone! In
The Bipolar Child, the authors have eloquently united the voices of parents and kids which previously seemed to echo alone. Read firsthand accounts from these parents and children. Review the compiled list of common
symptoms. Compare information about other disorders which bipolar disorder often overlaps or for which it is mistaken. Join those who now demand that psychiatry recognize the reality of and reevaluate the diagnostic criteria for early onset bipolar disorder.
Do you feel daunted by the rainbow of pills and liquids, the miasma of side effects your child faces? Your child's psychiatrist wants you to chart your son's behavior and moods, but you don't even know where to start? Are you ready to scream because of the endless meetings with your daughter's school? This book is the toolbox for you! Scan through pages of well organized, easy to understand presentations of the various med classifications and specific drugs used to treat this disorder in children. Find examples of mood charts and explanations of how to use them, as well as resources for purchasing them. Discover a wealth of information, including an actual Individual Education Plan (IEP), for helping your child be a successful student.
Do you feel as if you have been living in hiding because your family and friends do not understand the behavior of your son? Has your child's psychiatrist written a new prescription yet again? Have you come to the conclusion that your teen is going to just sleep through the next ten years? Demitri and Janice Papolos have interviewed countless parents and kids who share your frustrations! The poignancy of those who contributed their thoughts, experiences, successes and failures offers a wonderful source of support. Cry as you read a child describe feeling so out of control. Laugh at the humor of a mother who refuses to buckle under the pressure. Rejoice as you see your thoughts and concerns echoed by another.
Bottom line: This is a must-read. Kudos to the authors!
UPDATED 2002: Information on the 2002 revised and expanded edition of The Bipolar Child.
