Posted by sarita0001 on September 16, 2003, at 15:28:02
In reply to 13yo son j/diagnosed w/BP...Depakote...help wanted, posted by Singapore on September 16, 2003, at 9:31:16
Dear Singapore,
I was diagnosed BP when I was 17. It is 7 years later now and many times if I could go back in time I wish I had known more.
One thing that is a good idea is talk therapy. I prefer social workers(have tried a psychologist) because they tend to look at the person's overall environment, stressors, family system, etc. And they are cheaper for some reason- but it has nothing to do with quality. If your son is open to it, then it can only help. Family therapy is also extremely helpful because,if successful, it can help the person feel supported and not ostracized because of a new diagnosis. It can also help the family learn about the illness and everyone's feelings towards it.
Your concerns about side effects should not be dismissed by the doctor the way he did or by his instilling fear about non-compliance. There are other options and if this doctor is not willing to help you with that find another one.
The most important thing to do is talk to your son often and see how he is doing. He will probably be resistant mostly because he is dealing with this and he is a teenager. But be persistent, you'll hopefully be able to find a balance. A good thing to say if he doesn't want to talk is "I'm here if you want to talk later." Do your best to let him feel like he is a person and not this kid who has just been labeled "bipolar". I know it is hard and I am talking from a different point of view, but I know what I know because of my family's reaction to it.
I'll be happy to answer any other questions you have. I know it is hard for all involved but communication and support are essential. And if you feel the diagnosis may be wrong, get a second opinion. IT TAKES TIME.
Sara
poster:sarita0001
thread:260591
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030912/msgs/260699.html