Bipolar Disorder in Children and Teens (cont.)

As with other serious illnesses, taking care of a child with bipolar disorder is incredibly hard on the parents, family, and other caregivers. Caregivers often must tend to the medical needs of their child while dealing with how it affects their own health. The stress that caregivers are under may lead to missed work or lost free time. It can strain relationships with people who do not understand the situation and lead to physical and mental exhaustion.

Stress from caregiving can make it hard to cope with your child's bipolar symptoms. One study shows that if a caregiver is under a lot of stress, his or her loved one has more trouble sticking to the treatment plan, which increases the chance for a major bipolar episode. It is important to take care of your own physical and mental health. You may also find it helpful to join a local support group. If your child's illness prevents you from attending a local support group, try an online support group.

If you are unsure where to go for help, ask your family doctor. Others who can help are listed below.

• Mental health specialists, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, or mental health counselors



• Health maintenance organizations



• Community mental health centers



• Hospital psychiatry departments and outpatient clinics



• Mental health programs at universities or medical schools



• State hospital outpatient clinics



• Family services, social agencies, or clergy



• Peer support groups



• Private clinics and facilities



• Employee assistance programs



• Local medical and/or psychiatric societies.

You can also check the phone book under "mental health," "health," "social services," "hotlines," or "physicians" for phone numbers and addresses. An emergency room doctor can also provide temporary help and can tell you where and how to get further help.

Source: MedicineNet.com
http://www.medicinenet.com/bipolar_disorder_in_children_and_teens/article.htm