With proper diagnosis and early intervention, there is unlimited hope for children and teens diagnosed with bipolar disorder to lead fulfilling and enjoyable lives, starting today. Inside, you’ll discover compassionate and informative methods to help manage the diagnosis and develop the natural strengths, gifts, and skills that every child has to offer. Written by a top expert in the field, this life-changing book is presented in clear, straightforward language that dispels the myths about bipolar disorder and offers real solutions. You’ll uncover keen insight and the latest options for helping your bipolar child or teen by understanding: * The causes of bipolar disorder * The path and outcome of bipolar disorder in children and teens * The latest biological treatments and psychosocial therapies, and how to use them * How to handle behavioral and academic problems, as well as assess and manage suicidal tendencies * And much more

The second edition of this groundbreaking guidebook provides up-to-date treatments and compassionate guidance for anyone affected by bipolar disorder—from the recently diagnosed to chronic sufferers and their families. You’ll receive tips from world-renowned experts—including coauthor Nancy Rosenfeld, herself a bipolar survivor—and learn about vital new options and innovations in bipolar treatment and research, such as:•New precautions: why some patients can get worse rather than better when taking antidepressant medication•The inside story on atypical antipsychotic medications, antidepressants, and other medications that affect neurotransmitters•New genetic research, studies on serotonin, studies into childhood and adolescent bipolar disorder, and results of neuron imaging and neuropsychological testing•Advice on making instant, effective lifestyle changes, coping with stigma, and deciding whether or not—and how—to disclose your illness to others.•A guide to the many evolving forms of psychotherapy

It may be hard to believe your child will ever get better, but kids with bipolar disorder can and do lead healthy, stable lives. In this compassionate and optimistic book, expert clinician and renowned researcher Mani Pavuluri delivers information, advice, and proven strategies that empower you to deal with the challenges of bipolar disorder and help your child get well. Drawing on 20 years of experience with bipolar kids and their families, she provides solidly researched strategies for reducing or eliminating problems with mania, aggression, sleep disturbances, depression, and other issues. You’ll discover practical ways to handle crises at home and in school, work with professionals to find an effective combination of medicine and psychotherapy, and cultivate a supportive community of friends and peers for your child. Dr. Pavuluri also helps you deal with the stress that comes with parenting, so you can maintain your poise, focus on the positive, and be a powerful advocate for your child. Winner--American Journal of Nursing Book of the Year Award

People who wouldn't dream of blaming parents for a child's asthma or diabetes are often quick to blame bad parenting for a child's hyperactivity, depression, or school phobia. The parents, in turn, often blame their children, believing that they're lazy or rebellious. Even worse, the children with these psychological problems often blame themselves, convinced that they're just bad kids. In It's Nobody's Fault, esteemed child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr. Harold S. Kopelwicz at last puts an end to this pointless--and erroneous--cycle of blame and helps parents get the help they need for their troubled children. Written in an easy, anecdotal style and filled with fascinating stories of real children and their parents, It's Nobody's Fault is an indispensable guide for anyone who lives or works with children who need help.

This book provides an evidence-based framework to address the unique challenges faced by children and adolescents with bipolar spectrum disorders. Content is targeted towards psychologists, psychiatrists, and allied professionals. Chapters focus on differential diagnoses, co-morbid disorders, evaluation techniques, and intervention strategies grounded in current research. Case histories are provided to illustrate the complex issues of this specialized population. Multiple resources and links are included for professionals to utilize within their clinical practice.

The most practical and current resource for children and teens affected by bipolar disorder. A practicing psychiatrist specializing in bipolar disorder for nearly twenty years, Dr. Burgess has helped countless children and teens navigate the minefield of mania and depression and lead successful, happy lives. Drawing on the real questions asked by patients and parents and families of affected children, The Bipolar Handbook for Children, Teens, and Families tackles every area of the disorder: causes; medical treatment and psychotherapy; strategies for creating a healthy lifestyle; and preventing, coping with, and treating bipolar episodes. More than five hundred questions and answers address: - how to choose the right doctor or specialist for your child; - what treatment and medication protocols are best; and - how to reduce stress to prevent manic and depressive episodes. Special chapters on practical strategies for academic success, building healthy relationships, issues that specifically affect teens versus smaller children, and coping techniques for families and friends further explore the impact of the disorder on daily life. The Bipolar Handbook for Children, Teens, and Families also includes diagnostic criteria from the American Psychiatric Association and the National Institute of Mental Health, making this a versatile guide?perfect for both quick reference and in-depth study.

Bipolar disorder is clinically and personally explored by the authors, who expel myths and fears surrounding the illness, and focus on causes, symptoms, patterns, and treatments.