Q: What were some of the signs that you knew that something was
out of the norm to a child my age?
A: You had a lot of sleep issues. That entailed night terrors,
not being able to go to sleep, and not staying asleep. You were extremely
hyperactive. All of your emotions were very intense. You were also an expert
escape artist.
Q: What did you do to find out what was wrong with me?
A: We talked to the pediatrician and different specialists. We
tried many different therapies, therapists, and medications.
Q: What was your reaction when you found out that I had Bipolar
Disorder?
A: It was a relief to know what was wrong and how it could be
treated, but we also felt grief that you would have this problem your whole
life.
Q: What did you initially do to control the Bipolar?
A: We put you on correct medication, monitored your behavior, went
to different therapists, tried different therapies, and prayed for help in
guiding us to do what was right for you.
Q: What have you seen in my life that helps to maintain my
moods?
A: It has helped a lot that you have accepted that you have to
deal with it. Also, it has helped that you gained an understanding of the
importance of medicine and self-care, and recognizing that you can have a
normal life even though you have this struggle.
Q: What is the most difficult part about having a child with
bipolar disorder?
A: The hardest part for us is watching you struggle and not being
there in person to help you struggle. We wish that we could take the struggle
away, but we understand it is something that you have to deal with.
Q: What advice would you give to people who have been diagnosed
with bipolar and the people around them?
A: Don’t give up! Be willing to accept help. You cannot do it
alone and it is okay to get help. Build a strong support network. It may take a
while to learn how to maintain the bipolar but it will work out in the end.
Q: Is there anything else that you would want to say to help
those dealing with bipolar?
A: You can live a full and happy life even though you have
struggles. Also, know that bipolar disorder does not just affect the person who
has it, but also everyone in their family and those around them.
Thanks for reading! Have a great day!
McKenzie
