he wasnt diagnosed with it untill we got divorsed so when i think about it thats probably part of the reason that we couldnt work it out. I just dont want this to happen to my boys. how can it be detected early if my ex diddnt show signs untill his late 30s?
2007-02-09 00:33:24 · 5 answers · asked by Anonymous in Social Science ➔ Psychology
While they are not completely sure what the cause of Bipolar Disorder is, they believe that it does have a genetic component. When one parent has bipolar disorder, the risk to each child is l5-30%. This may seem like a scary statistic, so it is important that you remember that this is the risk only, it is not a definite.
There is really nothing that you can do to prevent your children from developing Bipolar Disorder. I wish I could say there was a magic pill or a vaccination, but there isn't. Just make sure you are keeping a close watch on them, monitoring them for the symptoms, keeping life very structured and intervening at the first sign of trouble. Early response sometimes makes for better outcome.
Or, as the Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation (CABF) says:
Early intervention and treatment offer the best chance for children with emerging bipolar disorder to achieve stability, gain the best possible level of wellness, and grow up to enjoy their gifts and build upon their strengths. Proper treatment can minimize the adverse effects of the illness on their lives and the lives of those who love them.
Tragically, after symptoms first appear in children, years often pass before treatment begins, if ever. Meanwhile, the disorder worsens and the child's functioning at home, school, and in the community is progressively more impaired.
Parents concerned about their child's behavior, especially suicidal talk and gestures, should have the child immediately evaluated by a professional familiar with the symptoms and treatment of early-onset bipolar disorder.
There is no a blood test or brain scan, as yet, that can establish a diagnosis of bipolar disorder.
Parents who suspect that their child has bipolar disorder (or any psychiatric illness) should take daily notes of their child's mood, behavior, sleep patterns, unusual events, and statements by the child of concern to the parents. Share these notes with the doctor making the evaluation and with the doctor who eventually treats your child. Some parents fax or e-mail a copy of their notes to the doctor before each appointment.
2007-02-09 01:20:40 · answer #1 · answered by psychgrad 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Bipolar isn't something you can prevent with vaccines and what not. And I don't think its heriditary. Bipolar is caused by an unbalance of chemicals in the brain. So I think your kids should be okay!
But I know theres treatment for those who have it. Ask you doctor about it.
2007-02-09 00:39:39 · answer #2 · answered by Malice 1 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I believe it is genetic, just like manic depression. Discuss this with your doctor so he is aware of it and this way you know the facts. Just don't go get upset every time the boys do something wrong, thinking they have it.
2007-02-09 00:44:25 · answer #3 · answered by Virginia C 5 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Bipolar disorder can be treated. When they show any symptoms we can rectify it by behavior therapy.
2007-02-09 00:39:23 · answer #4 · answered by Reasonable 1 · 1⤊ 1⤋
may be
go to www.bipolar.com
you will find the answer
2007-02-09 00:41:30 · answer #5 · answered by xxsanxx 5 · 1⤊ 1⤋