kimmiesue asked this question on 4/30/2000:
My step-son was adopted by me about a year ago when his Mother finally abandoned him altogether. He is 13 and was well set in his ways and personality. His moods would swing from angelic to nearly satanic. After many month's we were told that he has a form of manic depressive illness known as Bipolar Disorder.
We currently have him on Lithium. Prior to that it was Depakote and before that Wellbutrin. The kid feels like a lab rat and can hardly function. I am well aware that BP disorder is hard to diagnose in young children under 15 because of so many "like" illnesses. In my stepson's (now son) case, I have studied enough to know he indeed has every symptom of the disorder. I know he is also hurting and angry too over the loss of his Mother from his life.
My question is this....how long does it take to find the right medication. Side affects have been terrible on him. Sleepiness, sleelessness, hyper, lethargic, moody, energetic, worn out, happy in a false way, and now he is getting violent and distructive. What next? A friend of mine has a child with the same thing but we lost touch. She used to go to an AOL chatroom for parents of kids with this. Does anyone know how I can find out if it still exists?
All answers, help, etc GREATLY appreciated.
Liveagain gave this response on 5/1/2000:
When one has been on a medication for a certain amount of time, then the body itself can build yp an immunity to the medication itself. His medicine will always have to be changed as well as the dose amount because of this. Has he ever been in a hospital because of his illness? His mother leaving him the way she did will also contribute to his mood swings. He just might get violent towards you since he can't take out his negative feelings on the person who has caused his hurt and pain. To find a chat room where people are dealing with the problems that you are go to Keyword - Health or Psychia. Disorders. They have a world of information.
kimmiesue asked this follow-up question on 5/2/2000:
Hello,
To answer your question, he has been in 2 treatment centers. Both private and both residential. In one case, my husband filed charges for abuse. We were told they would use restraints but we were never told and never agreed to physical assaultive restraint. The case was settled out of court and we put him in another facility out in the country where they had counseling, group, chores, rewards, fishing, camping, etc. It was a wonderful atmosphere with a staff sent straight from heaven. My step-son/son ran off 3 times and lost the privilege to be there. It broke our heart. Thank you for your information. It was a help and a starting place.
Liveagain gave this response on 5/2/2000:
There is another place that you might want to try is Grandfather Home for Children located in Banner Elk, NC. They main thing is children who have been sexual abused but it's worth a try.
The average rating for this answer is 5.
kimmiesue rated this answer a 5.
Clear, concise, and on topic. Thank You MUCH!!! :)