Positive Parenting for Bipolar Kids How to Identify, Treat, Manage, and Rise to the Challenge

The Definitive Resource on How to Identify, Treat, and Thrive with a Bipolar Child More than three million American children suffer from some form of bipolar disorder, a life-impairing illness that can cause wild mood swings and even episodes of rage. But as a parent, can you tell the difference between a temperamental, moody child and one facing serious mental illness? Where do you turn if your child's tantrums and meltdowns are wreaking havoc? For families as well as professionals, here is the only book on early-onset bipolar disorder written by pediatric specialists who combine clinical care and research. Drawing from their professional experience and sharing stories of families in their practices, child psychiatrist Janet Wozniak and psychiatric nurse Mary Ann McDonnell guide you in how to: Navigate the "diagnosis tangle" to ensure accurate identification of the disorder Communicate effectively with doctors, teachers, and counselors Find allies and choose a treatment team Help your family cope From medication to coping strategies, this accessible book offers the most up-to-date information as well as inspiration, encouragement, and invaluable wisdom for all involved.

Mary Ann McDonnell, A.P.R.N., B.C., is the executive director of S.T.E.P. Up 4 Kids, a nonprofit organization supporting children and teens with bipolar disorder. A clinical university instructor, she also maintains a private practice in pediatric psychopharmacology.

Janet Wozniak, M.D., is the director of Pediatric Bipolar Research at Massachusetts General Hospital, and assistant professor of psychiatry there and at Harvard Medical School.


From the Hardcover edition.