New here, I need some guidance re: possible hospitalization

[karsten]

[quote=emom;860779]My daughter is 16 and has had an obvious anxiety problem that's been identifiable for at least 5 years. She was put on Zoloft at first and that did seem to help, but at the same time had been diagnosed with ADHD.
She also had to discontinue her ADHD meds last year because it became apparent that they were causing her anxiety to go through the roof.

Hi emom,
My daughter is also 16 and just diagnosed with bipolar II disorder, after 2 1/2 years of new issues constantly arising. My daughter was also told at first that she had depression/anxiety issues (rather than BPD) and ADD.
I am still learning myself, but wanted to let you know one thing I've learned that can help you. Antidepressants, as well as stimulants used to treat ADHD can trigger manic or depressive symptoms (or both) in BPD people, as well as make the condition permanently worse. (Which may be why your daughter had the reaction she did to her ADHD medicine)
I would seek another psychiatrist, and before making an appointment, ask them if they regularly see/treat patients with bipolar disorder. I am reading a very helpful book I also highly suggest (super easy to read and understand, written by a Doctor) called "The Bipolar Handbook for Children, Teens, and Families" by Wes Burgess. I'm only on chapter 5, but its really helping me understand and (hopefully better prepared). I don't know about you, but I feel totally isolated by this, and by the constant crisis', and the trouble my daughter gets in and its resulting consequences; I'm hoping understanding will help...
Prayers for you both,
MK

[ginnie]

My neighbors who I was close with had a child that was diagnsosed with what your children have. I was a big part of this childs life from the age of 11 until the present age of 19. His folks, refused the medications, and went a more natural method. I am not sure of the name of this as they have moved to Hawaii, but I can find out if you are interested. The medications seemed to make him worse. He drank some kind of nutritional supplement, and received good council. At 19 years old, I cannot say he is perfect, but he is on a good road. I kept him interested in his youth with fossils, and gave him plenty of interaction. Let me know if you need the name of what he took, or if you are interested in a more natural approach. ginnie

[Dmom3005]

Hi its a long road. So just work on what you can a little at a time.
Medications are hard to get through. You have to take them a little
at a time, see what will work. If you find something that does its
great.

Keep us updated. Also make sure they have a good psychologist
to talk too. And a great pyschiatrist to prescribe the meds.

Donna