Understanding and Treating Childhood Bipolar Disorder: A Guide

It can be terrifying when your doctor first diagnoses your child with bipolar disorder. Developing an effective treatment plan is the first step on the road to recovery.

Doctors

• Now that your child has been diagnosed, they will most likely have a psychologist or psychiatrist to help track moods and make a treatment plan.

Medication

• In some cases, various medications are recommended to aid in treatment. Mood stabilizers, antidepressants, anti-anxiety agents and anti-psychotics are all medications that may be prescribed.

Herbal Supplements

• There are many herbal supplements that are recommended as part of treatment. Talk to your doctor about which ones he recommends.

Therapy

• Therapy is highly recommended by most experts in treatment of bipolar disorder. Your child can either speak to a therapist, go to group therapy or do both.

Communication

• Keeping open communication with your child is important. Make sure to ask her about her moods and reactions to medications to help prevent episodes.