Posted by Sulpicia on July 9, 2001, at 22:10:00
In reply to My daughter just went into the Hospital, help us, posted by frenchy on July 8, 2001, at 8:36:17
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>Hi--
this is a difficult time for you. I was in your shoes last summer
and sometimes it *still* scares me!The good news is that bipolar disorder is highly treatable.
The not-so-good news is that it takes some fiddling to find
the correct dosage and combination of meds -- but eventually she
will stabilize and be OK -- and have a life.It's absolutely crucial that you educate yourself about bipolar disorder.
Her pdoc will [and you make sure this happens!] educate her, but gradually
as he/she feels she is ready.
You must, really really must use only the highest quality sources of information.
I will put some links up for you later tonight -- wrong computer! argh so you can
start.Bipolar disorder is forever. If she stops taking her medication she starts to cycle.
There is good evidence that the more she cycles, the worse the cycles will become, so
it's extremely prudent to maintain good mood stability.
It's a serious disorder: untreated the mortality rate is 18-20% BUT
there are excellent medications and I communicate with lots of people with bipolar who
are doing just fine.I have to laugh at your daughter going goth -- mine [16 y/o] became a raver.
A distant memory thankfully.Back shortly with some web resources.
S.
poster:Sulpicia
thread:260
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/child/20000813/msgs/264.html