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March 8, 2006, 6:17 am PST
My bipolar child hung himself--age 13
It is with so much sadness and empathy that I read your posts and watch Dr. Phil's show on this dreadful disorder. My only child, Eric, was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at age 9, following an ADHD diagnosis at age 6. My husband and I divorced after 20 years due to an ugly betrayal and subsequent marriage and child with his new bride. This, I believe, is what sent my boy into full fledged bipolar. He had good treatment from a psychiatrist and counselor, but we could never find the right meds. He went to public school, but it was probably coming to an end because of his anger and disrespect. Eric was not Bipolar II, but he had become increasingly violent during his rages--punching me in the arm and taking a knife and threatening me. Each time, I would call the psychiatrist and we would up the meds to help him be stable. But he ended up secretly taking his own life---not in a state of pyschosis because I was just upstairs and he didn't make a peep. Now, one year later, I'm just numb. Dead, for all intents and purposes. My reason for living is gone. And he was my best friend, and the person I most admired in the world. He managed his disease like a champ. But make no mistake. Even Bipolar I can end in suicide--15-20% of biopolar people take their own life. Please keep seeking help. And don't stop until you feel you've found the right help. With all my blessings.
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