The Bipolar Child: The Definitive and Reassuring Guide to Childhood's Most Misunderstood Disorder

This book was first published in 1999, with the subtitle: "The definitive and reassuring guide to childhood's most misunderstood disorder". It still remains probably the best single text for any parents, teachers, doctors or other health professionals seeking to recognise, understand and manage Bipolar Disorder in children. It explains how this condition differs from the usual adult form of Bipolar (manic-depressive) Disorder, and most importantly - it emphasises the very strong similarities, as well as the important differences, between this condition and ADHD, with which it is frequently confused. Divided clearly into sections dealing with the clinical profile, diagnosis, relevant research, medication and other management methods, this book provides an absolute wealth of accessible information and useful insights to guide both personal choices and clinical practice.

One reader's review from Amazon:

This book is a great reference guide for any parent, teacher or childminder experiencing life with a Bipolar child. The Bipolar Child is well presented and clearly understood. Included are many helpful lists to ensure accurate diagnosis, treatment, and care. All medical information is relayed with the aim of helping parents to ensure effective treatment for their children. Most importantly, parts of the book are devoted to discussions about the emotional turmoil that caring for a Bipolar Child can bring, and how parents and children can cope most effectively. The book is filled with families' stories that do a beautiful job providing comfort and inspiration to others. Parts of this book are very much directed to the US, but I found the complete book a great help to myself, a mother to a bipolar son.