Expert: Joyce A. Anthony - 2/20/2007

Question
My grand daughter was supposedly diagnosed as bi-polar.
She is only eight years old.  How can this be and my
daughter has had her to every program under the sun
and nothing is working, could you give us some advise
on what to do, where to seek help and whatever else needs
to be done?
Sincerely,
Grand Father in desparate need of answers.

Answer
Hi Albert:

Childhood onset bipolar disorder is difficult to treat because the young body is constantly growing and changing.  Your grand-daughter was fortunate to find a doctor that does recognize this disorder in the young.

The first thing that needs done is to get a medicine combination that works.  Recently, the combination of Lamictal and Seroquel has been great for children with bipolar disorder.  It is a combination that has very few side effects.

Have you worked with the schools to get her into a special classroom where there are fewer kids?  This often helps take the pressure of the child.  What is needed most is to get her moods regulated then try to find a calm environment in which she can learn to recognize her symptoms and begin to deal with them.

Some one on one counseling may help.  Make sure it is with a counselor who works specifically with children--and understand the bipolar child.

I hope I have been of some help.  Please feel free to write again should you have further questions.
                          Joyce A. Anthony