The meeting with the doctor went well and as I posted, he thinks we are moving down that bi-polar path. We are transitioning her meds to a more traditional bi-polar series of meds and we’ll go from there. In the end, we’ll actually end up taking LESS number of meds so that is a good thing. In kids, ADD and bi-polar can look a lot like each other so this could really be a big help for dealing with what might or might now be the ADD situation.
She did her best with the doctor but really just wanted to curl up next to me and avoid it. We talk so much about it being a safe zone where we just talk to help everyone out but it is still hard for her. And in a way that is a good thing - having remorse for your actions is a good sign (versus not caring about your past bad behavior).
We had to cancel her spending time up at her grandparents house in VA at the end of the week and I’m sorry for that. She would have had fun and I’d enjoy the break some too since things have been so nutty. Hopefully we’ll do it later.
I’ve been cross referencing recommendations on therapists with insurance coverage - a truly not fun thing. I’m going to start making some calls to see what will work out best. Even if the meds help, I do want her to have someone to talk to and work out her feelings.
June 19, 2007 at 6:12 am
This has to be hard, Michelle. My heart goes out to you, Jeff, and especially Hayley. It does sound like, as always, you’re on the right track. You know your daughter. This should just reaffirm that. You’re her very best advocate.
All the *hugs* and prayers in the world. I’m sure this isn’t easy to hear, but it’s also a diagnosis that is treatable. There are so many highly functioning bi-polar people around. Meds and therapy can do wonders. All the best to you and Hayley as you work through this.
June 19, 2007 at 2:48 pm
I admire you so much for your strength and Hayley for being a courageous little girl. There is a lot going on & her knowing that you are there must def. help. You are in my thoughts.
Hugs!
Keep smilin!
June 23, 2007 at 5:42 pm
As someone who was diagnosed ADHD and then bipolar instead, I know all too well how closely the disorders can mimic eachother. To add to the joy, you CAN have both.
Sigh. Just help her stay focused, and maintain routines, make sure she gets lots of sleep, all the stuff you likely already know. I sure wish I would have had a diagnosis at her age instead of just feeling broken.
And if you ever need a voice from the other side, feel free to ask. She’s likely just as frustrated as you are somedays.