You are here:
Bipolar Disorder/BI POLAR
Advertisement
Question
My 16 year old daughter has been treated for depression for the 2nd time since December. She was taking lexapro but it was not working and the doctor double the dosage. This didn't work and he has her taking Bupropion and suggested she get counseling. The counselor believes she has bipolar. This makes sense since her aunt and grandmother have it. We saw her doctor yesterday and he wants her to gradually get off the meds. This Sunday and tonight she has had awake "black outs". Sunday during this black out she had cut her ankle and did not remember it. Each time she had this black out she has forgotten to take Bup. Since she is suppose to be getting off the med it scares me to think what will happen. Do you have any suggestions?
Karen:
Keep the medication exactly where it is right now and call the doctor. Explain what is happening and go from there. The blackouts could be caused simply by stress, but it is important to get her examined by a doctor before making any medication changes right now.
Joyce A. Anthony
Related Articles
Answers by Expert:
Joyce A. Anthony
Expertise
I can answer questions dealing with bipolar disorder in a parent, yourself or your child. I can give suggestions and insight into what can be expected of many medications for bipolar disorder. My most extensive knowledge is in children with bipolar disorder. Here I can give advice on dealing with daily events, schools, medication and professionals.
Experience
I am the daughter of a bipolar/schizophrenic parent, am bipolar myself and am raising a bipolar child. I have a background in Psychology from Gannon University, have run several parenting classes for those parenting bipolar children and have had extensive experience with medications, the school system, homeschooling a special needs child, dealing with counselors, doctors and other professionals in the mental health field. I write for a bipolar website, with the focus on educating the child with bipolar disorder on his/her illness.
©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.