Book Description
This digital document is an article from Family Practice News, published by International Medical News Group on January 15, 2004. The length of the article is 1517 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: Bipolar: more severe, less obvious in children: longitudinal course study.(Children's Health)
Author: Diana Mahoney
Publication: Family Practice News (Magazine/Journal)
Date: January 15, 2004
Publisher: International Medical News Group
Volume: 34Issue: 2Page: 53(1)

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Customer Reviews (10)

exceptional work
This book helps both the parent of a bipolar child as well as the trained professional.It is an insight into the illness written in a way that is easy to follow, yet full of extremely valuable information.I have purchased many copies of this book in order to pass this information on to those parents I know who are struggling with their bipolar children.The idea of being a "good enough" parent has really helped me with my own daughter.I would highly recommend this book to anyone in search of information, or purely curiosity.It is an excellent read.

The best book I have read on this topic
I am a psychologist who works with bipolar adolescents and adults and I think this book is the best I have read on this topic.
This is a kind and gentle book that shows great understanding of the problems and strengths of the bipolar child. This is a wonderfully written book without jargon, which accurately describes the good, the hard and the complicated of being a child or raising a child with this disease.This book also deals with the secondary problems children face such as drug and alcohol use and other risk taking behaviors.
The author describes in detail how such children function from preschool through young adulthood. There is an important section of the difference between bipolar disorder and ADD.And, there are clear recommendations as to how to deal with the difficulties bipolar children have in ways that don't punish the child or the parent.
Actually, his suggestions are great for parents with children who are not bipolar.
What comes across is this is a caring book written by a caring doctor.

This is a great book
I am a child and adolescent psychiatrist and just recently sat down to read the book cover to cover. Dr. Lombardo is a gifted teacher who presents ideas and concepts in such a fashion that the recommendations he gives to parents make sense.I especially was glad that he acknowledges that parents need to be good enough, not perfect.As Dr. Lombardo phrased it: "perfect is the enemy of good" (pg 62). I think this is very validating to parents of bipolar children who all too often get unspoken messages from others that defective parenting skills are the cause of the bipolar's child's behaviors.As if in a "hats off" to parents of bipolar children, Dr. Lombardo states:"It takes courage to acknowledge the presence of bipolar disorder, in ourselves and in our children....Courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to do the right thing in the presence of fear" (pg 276).

Suzanne C. Simon -- psychotherapist
I am a psychotherapist with some 20 years of experience, but I do not deal directly with children. I was drawn to this book in an effort to learn more about a field that is outside my own. I found it to be an amazing work. In the first place,itmakes a major contribution to the problems raised in understanding and parenting a bipolar child. It presents the very latest knowledge in the field,in clear and lucid language, beautifully organized and wholly understandable to the lay person. I found it particulary useful because it also deals with the positive aspects of this illness, such as the extraordinary sensitivity and creativity that many of these children manifest. Its coverage is complete, extending from infancy into adolescence.But beyond that, it successfully places those problems in the much broader context of human psychological and personality development in general. For example, the chapter dealing with saying "No" to young children contains a brilliant analysis applicable to all children or even,for that matter, to adults. At the end of the book there is a thorough discussion of the many different types of treatment available, together with a reference guide to the latest medications. I can recommend it without hesitation both to parents and professionals.Indeed, I will be recommending this book to those of my own patients who have problems with their children, even though they may not necessarily be diagnosed as bipolar.

Parent/Educator
I?m a parent that tacklesfamily problems with books, support groups, therapy, whatever it takes. I read Dr. Lombardo?sbook only 6 months or so into the diagnosis of bipolar disorder for my 13 year old son,after the nightmarish depressions, poor and nasty psychiatrists, after reading 4 books -- The Bipolar Child (twice), Acquainted with the Night, Jamison?s book (can?t remember the name), and some other book on alternative therapies for bipolar disorder and other mental illnesses, and after spending countless hours talking toparentsonlineand learning about meds, side effects, behavioral issues.

As a single parent, with an MA and a PhD in fields of psychology and education,I can honestlytell you that I learned quite a bit from Dr. Lombardo?s book.Here?s what I found?.

The perspective Dr. Lombardo has on child development as a teacher, psychiatrist, and one who has suffered from bipolar disorder greatly enhances, and lends credibilityto his ability to differentially diagnose typical and atypical behaviors in children.Furthermore,the information on the differential diagnosis ofADHD versus BP from the neurological and behavioral perspective was very clearly presented, highly informative, and points to the need for expert care for children with these disorders.

The overall developmental approach is extremely valuablebecause, behaviors and life issues change through development, and is helpful to look ahead to see what might be coming along.Additionallly, some of the more subtle behavioral and cognitive issues that children with BP face is discussed and NOT COVERED in the other books I?ve read ? including a discussion of the concomitant disorders that some kids face along with bipolar disorder.

The review of the meds was excellent, partitioned clearly, and will be a helpful resource guide. As for the structure,I overall liked the format, where some of the critical issues are set out from the rest of the text. Only boring part for me was some of the case studies ? written more for a psychiatric textbook than for a parent.

All in all, I found the book to be an excellent companion to the Bipolar Child and highly recommend it ?. For the novice parent and the ?experienced parent?.I also think this book should be required reading for school psychologists and social workers! At least one of these 2 books, please.
... Read more

Book Description
This digital document is an article from Clinical Psychiatry News, published by International Medical News Group on January 1, 2003. The length of the article is 563 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: Polypharmacy often used in bipolar children. (Some Data Support Practice).
Author: Carl Sherman
Publication: Clinical Psychiatry News (Magazine/Journal)
Date: January 1, 2003
Publisher: International Medical News Group
Volume: 31Issue: 1Page: 14(1)

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Book Description
University of Louisville, Kentucky. Concise but comprehensive review ofclinical manifestations, diagnosis and treatment for child and adolescentpsychiatrists. 19 Contributors. DNLM: Bipolar Disorder - in adolescence. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

grateful
Since diagnosed with bipolar disorder, I've read many books concerning this disease.This book was extremely helpful in getting me to understand my condition and it showed me a few preventive techniques that have worked. I am not cured, butIdo believe that this book has helped me in a waythat no other book has, and for that I am grateful. ... Read more

Book Description
This digital document is an article from Clinical Psychiatry News, published by International Medical News Group on October 1, 2001. The length of the article is 469 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: Adolescent Bipolar Disorder Charts a Troubled Course.(Brief Article)
Author: Carl Sherman
Publication: Clinical Psychiatry News (Magazine/Journal)
Date: October 1, 2001
Publisher: International Medical News Group
Volume: 29Issue: 10Page: 22

Article Type: Brief Article

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Book Description
This digital document is an article from Clinical Psychiatry News, published by International Medical News Group on May 1, 2005. The length of the article is 1174 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: 'Acquainted with the Night'.(BOOKS, THE CHILDREN OF THE BRAIN)(Book Review)
Author: Rodrigo A. Munoz
Publication: Clinical Psychiatry News (Magazine/Journal)
Date: May 1, 2005
Publisher: International Medical News Group
Volume: 33Issue: 5Page: 52(1)

Article Type: Book Review

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Book Description
"Treating a child with drugs before it's clear what is going on is worse than not treating a child at all. Let's face it: We are experimenting on these kids without tracking the results."-Glen Elliott, M.D., Ph.D.

When you consider that 10 million children under the age of 18, including a growing number of preschoolers, are on anti-depressants and another 7 million are on stimulants for attention problems, it becomes obvious why Dr. Elliott has written this guide for parents who feel "they have no choice." As the nation's leading expert on psychiatric disorders in children and the leading researcher on the effects of psychiatric drugs on kids, Dr. Elliott says that doctors and even teachers are too quick to recommend medicating young minds rather than taking the necessary steps to find out if drugs are even necessary.Medicating Young Minds tells parents what to expect, the questions to ask, the treatment they deserve from a concerned doctor, and even what tests to demand to make sure that drugs are the best recourse. Parents do have a choice, says Dr. Elliott, and this book empowers parents to make their own decisions. With detailed, step-by-step advice, he counsels parents on how to become active and informed participants in the diagnostic and treatment process. The long-term consequences of putting kids on psychiatric drugs are still unknown, and Medicating Young Minds will be of critical interest to all parents, teachers, and doctors concerned with the welfare of children. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

An Excellent Book, But Also Consider Natural Remedies
The key to reading this book is to understand that the author is really trying to convey to you everything you need to know about making wiser decisions regarding possible medication for your troubled child.He is not interested in investigating natural remedies or in discussing in depth the environmental and societal dimensions of the problems these kids have--just in explaining the medications and other accepted therapeutic approaches.He and his co-writer do a fine job of spelling out in very clear prose, with helpful case studies, all the angles you need to consider.Dr. Elliott firmly believes in the value of administering drugs to many of these kids, but he is quick to note when it is inappropriate.
Of course, the natural remedies are in fact important to examine.For instance, the newer clinical trial literature contains studies where certain herbal remedies perform as well as Ritalin and Prozac without the same level of side effects.And other natural remedies besides herbal ones deserve investigation.(My research suggests that correctly combining different types of natural remedies may well lead to outperforming Ritalin and Prozac.)Persuasive studies of environmental and societal influences causing or exacerbating these kids' syndromes also are worth reading.But that's all for another book.Dr. Elliott's does what it sets out to do very nicely.

Clear, Concise and Scary
This is a very well organized and presented summary of current practice in child psychiatry, clearly written for the lay person. It gives guidelines for finding help for you and your child and a clear summary of the four major groups of behavioral and mood disorders. It also discusses the medications used to treat these various types of disorders as well as some alternative, non-drug therapies. I highly recommend this book to parents who are beginning to wonder if their child's problem behavior is more than just simple misbehavior.

Having been on this road for 9 years now, I can see where our family was pushed in directions that were not the best for my child, and I plan to use the information in this book to get my son and his treatments re-assessed. Without a helpful book like this one we were subjected to some of the mistakenly but commonly practiced diagnostic methodology that may not have been the best choice for us. Unfortunately, this book also confirms what I have feared, that my worries over the future of my bipolar/ODD son are indeed justified and his life and mine will never be an easy one.

One word of warning: this book may frighten you because it makes it clear how little we know about the causes of mood and behavioral disorders, as well as how little we know about how and why psychoactive medications do or do not work. Do not let that stop you from using medications if that seems to be the only way to relieve your child's mental and social pain.

Huge progress has been made in psychiatry since the 1960's but an immense amount of work still needs to be done. Fortunately, this book clearly lays out what can be done at this time to help "problem" kids. On the other hand, unfortunately it also shows where research and knowledge are lacking.

I highly recommend this book both for parents who are beginning to wonder if they might be bad parents because their child just can't behave, as well as for families already entangled in the mental health system.

Super Great Book
Very well done and a must read for those in the field.Also a very good buy for the money spent.A +++++ ... Read more

Book Description
Kids in the Syndrome Mix is a concise, scientifically up-to-date, all-in-one guide to the whole range of often co-existing neuro-behavioral disorders in children—from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder, and bipolar disorder, to autistic spectrum disorders, nonverbal learning disabilities, sensory integration problems, and executive dysfunction.

Dr. Kutscher provides accessible information on causes, symptoms, interactions with other conditions, and treatments. He presents effective behavioral strategies for responding to children who display traits of these disorders—whether at home, at school, or in other settings—along with case vignettes and practical tips.

The author's sympathetic yet upbeat approach and skillful explanations of the inner world of children in the syndrome mix make this an invaluable companion for parents, teachers, professionals, and anyone else who needs fast and to-the-point advice on children with special needs. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (27)

Good for parents not professsionals
A good resource for parents that need some understaning and explanation.
It is too basic for professioanls.

Helpful, but general
"Kids in the Syndrome Mix" is helpful and covers the common diagnoses we encounter in the classroom. I would couple this purchase with another title to gain insight into the families involved in these personal struggles, to add a level of intimacy and personalization, and to learn of symptoms first hand. I recommend buying this book along with "Mommy I'm Still in Here" by Kate McLaughlin. With both books, you begin to see the whole picture.

An Excellent Resource for Understanding Complicated Children
This is one of the best books that I have read to help me understand not only my own complicated child but many of the boys and girls that I have taught over the years.Martin Kutscher and the other contributing writers do an excellent job explaining the characteristics and challenges of a variety of common syndromes like ADHD, Aspergers, LD, etc.The authors show readers how to help children and young adults function in our world.

I highly recommend parents and teachers of children with special needs to read and discuss this book.Although I have read numerous other books about children with ADHD, Asperger's, etc, this book provides a lot of valuable information and useful suggestions in an easy to understand format.This would be a great book to use in schools for staff development.

I COULDN'T PUT IT DOWN!
First of all, it is written to be an aid or a starting point for parents and teachers, etc., as to what to look for in the children in their care. It is not written as reference book with all the answers (as the person who gave it a two-star rating expected it to be). It gives overviews of the syndromes and disorders and breaks them down into ways for us to understand what is happening to our children, and, most importantly, WHY it's happening to them. They're not lazy, bad or out of control, their brains are just wired differently than other brains. It provides tips and ideas to incorporate when dealing with problems that come up with our children in their day-to-day lives.
My child suffers from ADHD without hyperactivity, bipolar disorder, PDD-NOS, and depression. I've read other books, countless articles and spoken to counselors over the years, but I was able to understand these disorders so much better after reading this book. I don't read very quickly but I was able to read this book in very little time. I've recommended it to friends, teachers, & administrators; I recommend it to you, too.

Good Overview
Good overview of kids with commonly comorbid conditions. Also recommend George Lynn's books on these conditions. He goes into more depth and gives helpful ideas on how to help our kids. ... Read more

Book Description
From a leading child psychiatrist, acomprehensive parents' guide to understanding--and managing--pediatricbipolar disorder

Once considered an adult illness, bipolar disorder(manic depression) is the fastest growing category in child psychiatrysince ADHD, touching the lives of an estimated one million children. Butoften it goes misdiagnosed, and children can be prescribed medication thatonly worsens the condition. Parents are desperate for someone to guide theway through this difficult time. With her twenty-five years of clinicalexperience, child psychiatrist Rosalie Greenberg offers families alifeline--a book filled with sage, practical, and reassuring advice foranyone struggling to help a child locate that elusive inner calm.

Witha revolutionary approach that sees the brilliance, the sweetness, thecreativity in these kids, Dr. Greenberg gathers their stories, as well astheir parents' stories, to open a window onto these children who have forso long gone misunderstood. She walks readers through the differentscenarios that may occur with bipolar kids, from daring manic phases tosudden periods of overwhelming sadness. She spells out the "whys" behindthe condition; shows parents how best to navigate the peaks and valleys ofbipolar; and provides parents with the assurance that they need not tacklethis illness alone. Most important, she encourages adults to listento what children say through the maze of their mania and depression, forthis can make all the difference in diagnosing and successfully managingbipolar.

Bipolar Kids offers parents welcome understanding,guidance, and, most of all, hope that every child can--and should--lead afull, productive, and contented life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

Real Life, Real Answers
This book is an excellent resource for any parent of a child with bipolar disorder, as there are so few resources out there.It is comprehensive, easy to understand, up-to-date, and very informative, approaching topics relevant to parents struggles with issues applying to their bipolar child.An especially important chapter is the one on medications, and the fact that he goes over each one specifically.Another major problem that parents face is "Is it bipolar disorder or something else?"Too many children have been misdiagnosed as bipolar disorder (manic) when it is just ADHD, and this book addresses that, as well as other disorders of misdiagnosis.The main thing is that this book shows parents how to traverse the peaks and valleys of their child's wild bipolar mood swings, with practical advice and illustrative examples that any parent can follow.I especially like the part at the end called "Real Life, Real Answers." I highly recommend this book as a resource.

So helpful
I originally took this book out of the library, but bought four copies, because it has been so helpful in understanding what my daughter has been going through and in explaining why "normal" parenting techniques do no work with BD kids.I am giving copies to my family members, so that they can understand as well.

Must read for parents of bp kids
Greenberg does a wonderful job of explaining bipolar disorder in children. She does so with understanding, respect and encouragement for the parents, which we don't normally see in these kinds of books. Very helpful. I refer to it often.

Bipolar Kids - Helping Your Child Find Calm In The Mood Storm
Dr. Greenberg has changed the way we think of bipolar disorder.She has removed the stigma that has long been associated with this diagnosis.Through her insight, compassion, and extensive experience in working with children, she has written a book that give parents a resource to better understand the complexities that are associated with this disorder.

A must read for anyone who wants to better understand childhood bipolar disorder.


Jeanette Black

Forever Grateful
Anyone looking at this book positively must read this amazing chronicle of many families trials and tribulations with the bipolar disorder. Dr. Greenberg should win an award not only for this book, but her contributions to the field. She has been a pioneer in the discovery of detecting Juvenile Bipolarity and has changed my sons life! I laughed and I cried through this book and will continue to use it as a source of invaluable information. You absolutely must read it! ... Read more

Book Description
NEWLY REVISED AND UPDATED

The Out-of-Sync Child broke new ground by identifying Sensory Processing Disorder, a common but frequently misdiagnosed problem in which the central nervous system misinterprets messages from the senses. This newly revised edition features additional information from recent research on vision and hearing deficits, motor skill problems, nutrition and picky eaters, ADHA, autism, and other related disorders. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (39)

Opened my eyes wider!
This was a great book.Very helpful.Our daughter has been diagonsed with Dyspraxia and Hypotonia and this book really hit the mark for us.It cleary explained things that had been difficult to understand regarding her behavior.It was recommended by our daughter's Occupational Therapist.

OUTSTANDING - HIGHLY RECOMMEND
I was very pleased with the condition of the book.The turnaround time for delivery was great!

Sensory Issues
If your child has been dx with sensory issues this book gives a step-by-step explanation of reactions and interventions that will give a parent alot of "aha" moments.

Finally! An answer.
An Occupational Therapist suggested this book and I bought it right away. Only half way through it I'm seeing a connection between my child's behavior and his possible sensory issues. What an eye opener! I bought the companion book, The Out-of Sync Child Has Fun. I've already tried some of the exercises with great success. What a difference!

FOR THE KIDS
LIKE THIS BOOK, HELPED TO UNDERSTAND WHAT IS GOING ON IN AN EASY FORMAT, KINDA TECHNICAL AT TIMES BUT HELPFUL OVER ALL. FIRST ONE I TELL FRIENDS TO READ IF THEY HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT IT. ... Read more

Book Description
A developmental bio-psychosocial framework for the early identification, assessment, preventive intervention, and treatment of children with bipolar patterns. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Good Summary of Bipolar Patterns in Children
This book gives a nice practical application of the patterns seen in children with bipolar tendencies.Case studies are used along with supportive research to highlight these patterns.I particularly liked the way Greenspan's DIR model was applied.It was comprehensive, yet brief and concise.Possibly beginner to intermediate level read. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

Love it
I bought this book last year when my 8 year old was diagnosed with Bipolar. I was hoping it would help me explain to him what in the world was causing him the termoil his body was given him on the inside.
To my suprise it not only helped him understand, it helped me as well. He keeps it by his bed side (still to this day) and reads it either to himself or to me, when he is having and off day.

I am very thankfull I got this book.

Absolutely Wonderful 6 Stars
Bipolar disorder in children can manifest itself in many ways.This book helps children to understand what is happening in a non-clinical way.Having children with this illness, I have found this to be a valuable resource to let them know that they are not alone in what they are feeling.I have found that it helps open a line of communication between my wife and I and our girls.They are no longer embarrassed by the difficulties they face, because they understand that they are not the only ones to have this health condition.Also, it helps them to express their experiences to me in their own words.

Unsatisfied
I am both a mental health care professional, and a mother of a child with Bipolar II. Although Bipolar I, Bipolar II, and Cyclothalmia, differ greatly; there are many similarities. Unfortunately, none of them were connected in this book. When my child read it, the comment was, "I could never relate to this book. It's not me!". Nothing of the racing thoughts; the obsessiveness; the disruptive sleep patterns, etc. I shared the book with many of the families I work with, almost all had similar responses.I am happy to see the topic come up and be published for children. I just wish it could have been something that more of them and their parents could actually relate to.

glad this book exists!
I actually got this book from the National Alliance for Mental Illness (something like that?) before it was published in color. At that point, it was just stapled together-- but it was (and still is) one of the only books like this accessible for kids. Its literary content isn't phenomenal-- it'll probably never win awards for story-- but it's important just because of the topic it covers...

Hope!
Want your child to find some comfort and understanding of what is happening to him/her.This book will help.Be sure to the the Biolar Child for yourself. ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (5)

Wow!Someone else understands us completely!
I just bought this book and received it yesterday, and it's already making an impact in my life.I can't believe that someone else's family has gone through exactly what we're going through with one of our kids.I'm looking forward to getting a lot of help and great ideas from this book, and hoping to learn to cope better with my moody child, without so many feelings of guilt in the process.

A Must Read
Although The Bipolar Child had great insight as to why my child was diagnosed ADHD at 6 and then rediagnosed Bipolar at age 14, I found this book to be extremely helpful as to what needs to follow now that my son is Bipolar.I have to agree with one of the other reviews written, that this book contains information parents are "assumed" to already know, when in fact, we do not.If you have a child suffering from Bipolar or depression, I highly recommend reading this book.

Great book for parents.
I work as an inpatient clinician on a child/adolescent unit.This book answers the questions and gives the guidance I am frequently asked for.Clearly it is a book that was written by very knowledgable professionals who have a compasionate understanding for what the overwhelmed parents of these children need. It is clearly written and full of practical advice and useful tools. I strongly recommend it for anyone with a child/teen with a mood problem.If you know one of these parents-buy it as a gift for them-they are probably too busy dealing with their life to get it for themselves.

Realistic, Informed, and Practical
As the mother of a bipolar child, I've read just about everything available. While "The Bipolar Child" informs about childhood bipolar disorder, "Raising A Moody Child" assumes that, as parents, we already know about the disorder and now need nuts-and-bolts coping strategies and techniques. (Am not knocking "The Bipolar Child." It was a necessary, groundbreaking book.)

I found that this book, however, offered what our family needs at this point in our daughter's life: tips, ideas, suggestions, and specifics to help parents and bipolar children cope.

The authors clearly respect parents' existing base of knowledge about bipolar and trust them enough to make use of the information provided without having to rehash the details of the disorder ad infinitum.

While this book may be informative to those who want to know more about some of the issues parents of bipolar children face, the book clearly is aimed specifically at the parents who already are on the front lines.

The book is written in a clear, no-nonsense, easy-to-follow fashion. I came away from this book with numerous strategies for helping my daughter deal with her mood swings--(techniques ranging from Playdough art projects to smacking a tennis ball against the garage wall).

This is an excellent read for any parent struggling with the problems of a bipolar child. Obviously, it's not a cure-all, but it's easy to read and, as 'bipolar parents' know, ideas for coping mechanisms are always welcome.

I appeciated the authors' directness and writing style. Although I read the book all the way through, I still pick it up now and then to flip to various sections for new ideas, to refresh my memory about a medication, or to give myself a pep talk.

Thanks so much to the authors for writing this book, and to my child's therapist for recommending it.

Powerful, Uplifting & Essential
Finally, a book that addresses all sides of this painful spectrum - lovingly, practically, and compassionately. This book explains Depression and Bipolar Disorder along with strategies to deal with it effectively, in language that parents and kids can understand. Together, they can take the actions that leadto succesful and happy lives.

It is one thing to face a singular loss, but yet another when the grief of an ongoing condition presents itself on a daily. basis. This book goes a long way to helping all concerned deal with that reality. ... Read more

Book Description
While coping with teenage moodiness can be difficult under any circumstances, it can be especially challenging if a teenager has a serious mood disorder. This concise, readable book is the definitive guide to understanding and getting effective help for adolescents with depression or bipolar disorder, designed for parents and other adults in contact with afflicted teens. It combines the most current scientific expertise available today--including the newest treatments and medications and the latest research findings on mood disorders--with no-nonsense, hands-on advice from parents who have faced these disorders in their own children.Among other topics, the book addresses the biochemical roots of adolescent mood disorders, the ongoing debate over psychiatric medications for young people, and practical strategies for helping a teen cope at home and at school. It concludes on a hopeful note, by reviewing the latest scientific evidence on methods of stopping mood disorders before they start or minimizing the risk of recurrence. A growing body of research now shows that early diagnosis and treatment of depression and bipolar disorder may reduce the severity of these diseases, both now and in the future. Including red flags to look out for and warnings on the dangers of doing nothing, this book will provide the information and tools parents need to help adolescents achieve the best possible outcome. On the Adolescent Mental Health Initiative series:The Adolescent Mental Health Initiative series addresses some of the major mental health issues facing teenagers today--eating disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, and schizophrenia. Of the dozen or so books planned for the series, the first four, including the two presented here, focus on how parents and other adults, including teachers, coaches, guidance counselors, and even pediatricians, can help afflicted teens overcome the disrupting and often devastating challenges of these disorders. Each book is an authoritative guide that offers essential information such as how to go about getting a diagnosis, what the latest treatment options and prevention strategies are, how to help teens cope with mental illness at home and at school and, perhaps most importantly, what the warning signs and red flags are that parents and other adults should look out for in teenagers who may be at risk for these diseases. Combining the expertise of leading psychiatrists and psychologists with the experience of everyday people who have faced these disorders in their own children, the books are designed to help adults deal effectively with adolescent mental illness and to empower them to act immediately and wisely in getting teens the best available treatment possible. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Nice Little Overview
I honestly think that there is such a vast difference between Depression and Bipolar Disorder, I think they should have just gone ahead and printed two separate books.

This book is well-written and easy to read, and short.It provides a quick overview of what these illnesses are, warning signs, an overview of treatments, and getting accommodations at school.

I liked the short stories from parents about real-life kids with these disorders, and I liked the one line tipes and summaries on every couple pages, offset in the margins.

I was rather shocked that in the short section on dietary supplements they only mention SAM-e and St. John's Wort without mentioning Omega-3 Fatty Acids which HAVE been proven to be of help. It was even mentioned as using as an adjunct with lithium.

There also wasn't any emphasis on "sleep hygiene" which is always touted as being so important to success.

It is far from a "Bible" of adolescent Depression or Bipolar Disorder, but as I said, it is a nice little overview.

... Read more

Book Description
Mood Swings? Behavioral Problems?Attention Deficit Hyperactivity in Children?You must read this book.Newly expanded version of "The Suicide of My Son", with new chapters devoted to examining the life of the bipolar child.In this profoundly moving story, the author Trudy Carlson discusses the symptoms of bipolarity (manic-depression) and anxiety disorder in young persons.Written for parents, teachers, health care professionals - anyone interested in today's youth.Enlightening, informative and educational. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Not Helpful
A mom who lost her Bipolar son to suicide wrote this book based on her personal experience.It definately does not do what the subtitle says it does--give parents and professionals everything they need to know!I found that a new book, "If Your Child is Bipolar" gives great information on what parents need to do to take care of their Bipolar child and does a much, much better job."The Bipolar Child" should also be on the bookshelf of every parent with a child who is or might be Bipolar.

too personal
This book has some good info, but is a very personal perspective of one person's experience--and her child committed suicide!

Interesting, but very personal
While this book addresses many important topics related to childhood-onset Bipolar Disorder, it is also very closely tied to the author's personal experience of losing a child to the disorder.It provides one parent's perspective on medical treatment and suicide. It's can be a helpful resource, but could also be somewhat depressing for parents looking for solutions to their daily challenges.--Sheryl Gurrentz, co-author of "If Your Child is Bipolar--a parent to parent guide to living with and loving a Bipolar child"

an impressive source of info about childhood bipolar
This book is a thorough guide to childhood bipolar disorder.It rivals "The Bipolar Child" in that it is an attempt to provide a comprehensive picture of the disorder to parents and doctors.I don't think it's quite as well written or well organized as "The Bipolar Child", but I still recommend that it be read since I think a number of sources of information should be used when approaching a complex subject like bipolar disorder.Avery Z. Conner, author of "Fevers of the Mind".

Where is the editor?
This book is very short on organization and is written in a manner that is a bit hard to follow. Unimportant details are thrown in frequently; important parts of the story are worked in too late. I was having trouble understanding why ideas were misplaced in this book and I was nagged by thoughts like: "Why did the editor of this book not clean up the story sequence?".

The author does not cite that she possesses any particular training, and yet, she throws around all kinds of "facts" and figures about depression and other illnesses and does not bother to give the first clue about where she is getting specific bits of information (although there are references in the back). I know that some of the information is on the money, because I have read it elsewhere. But other items are surprising to me. I keep thinking "Where is the EDITOR of this book! "

I keep thinking "I wonder how many of these figures I should believe, if any?" When she sticks to her own experiences, the book is quite valuable, but when the author turns the thing into more of a textbook about half way through, I get frustrated. I am plagued by how and why the editor would allow so much academic-type information from someone with no apparent academic credentials in this area.

And then it strikes me, as you have probably already figured out. This is a self-published book. There IS no editor. No publisher at all is listed on the cover, but when you look inside, you see that it is printed by Benline Press--the first syllable being the name of the son.

I feel betrayed by the bookseller. I am not sure I would have ordered this book had I known that its publication was not supervised by a disinterested party. There is very little on the market about bipolar disorder in children, and I would like to see other attempts made. ... Read more

Book Description
This digital document is an article from Clinical Psychiatry News, published by Thomson Gale on July 1, 2007. The length of the article is 511 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: Irritability, aggression rule in early bipolar.(Child/Adolescent Psychiatry)
Author: Patrice Wendling
Publication: Clinical Psychiatry News (Magazine/Journal)
Date: July 1, 2007
Publisher: Thomson Gale
Volume: 35Issue: 7Page: 22(1)

Distributed by Thomson Gale ... Read more

Book Description
This book is intended to make everyone aware of how Bipolar Disorder, otherwise known as Manic Depressive Illness, especially in its atypical forms, is presently misunderstood and misdiagnosed as ADHD, Conduct Disorder, and other related behavioral disorders. It is also intended to make professionals and others who deal with troubled children become competent in identifying this serious and pervasive illness in children and adolescents and of being help to them.

Customer Reviews (6)

A little biased
An interesting read; however, the same thing is said over and over and over and over (get the idea?)He does make interesting points -- that I agree with about the disorder; but, this could have been said in a much more concise way.Tooooooooo much repetition.Save your $$.Don't bother.

A Definite MUST read - If your child has behavioral problems!
This book is great at explaining the differences between ADHD, and Child-Onset Bipolar disorders. It explains the different types of Child-Onset bipolar also.My son exhibits the Atypical Bipolar, which comes out in more aggressive, easily frustrated behaviors vs. typical manic / depressive stages.Bipolar in children is much different, than bipolar in adults!!!This book explains it so well, and I highly recommend it!! I highlighted so much of the book, and then took it to the doctor! Give it to the grandparents to read, your spouse, (your ex ;) and anyone who has a close relationship with your child.I have read several books on bipolar disorder in children... and this one is one of the best!!

wow. an EYE OPENER
my daughter was misdiagnosed as having ADHD/Oppositional Defiance Disorder. for two years she suffered through medications that made her feel worse and as her mother, i suffered right along with her. i got this book delivered today and read it from cover to cover IN TEARS because FINALLY everything made sense. my daughter is finally stable on the right combo of medications. this book is very informative and easy to read. most of the info i already knew but some i had to look up and research further. this book put my mind at ease in knowing we are finally on the right track. well worth every penny. thank you Dr. Isaac.

A must read
This is one of the Best books I have read about early onset Bipolar Disorder it describes my child exactly. I hope every parent and doctor read this book to understand not every child acting out has been abused or the parents are no good sometimes it is mental illness. I plan on buying several copies and handing them out to people, doctors and teachers that don't understand why my child is acting the way he is.Thank You sooo much for this book, it has helped me in so many ways . I hope it helps many others. PLEASE read this book if you know any child that is "out of control" it might be BP.

Highlights important info
It is so important for parents to understand that the co-morbidity rate between ADHD and Bipolar Disorder is extremely high.Not only can one be mistaken for the other, but they have an extremely high frequency of occuring together.This book does a good job of helping parents identify what could be wrong with their children.

S. Gurrentz, author of "If Your Child is Bipolar" ... Read more