Looking for advice for adolescent recently diagnosed

[momto3]

4. I have been dealing with a similar issue with my daughter.

My daughter started hearing voices when she was 10, a little over 3 years ago. She was subsequently diagnosed as having bipolar I with psychosis.

I completely agree with the poster above that suggested NAMI. They have a wealth of information and may have support groups in your area for your daughter as well as the rest of your family.

We were told that the most difficult time would be the teen years due to the constant changing of hormones and growth. This has been true. She has been on 8 different medicine cocktails thus far. Some work well for awhile and suddenly stop, others worked well with horrific side effects and others had no effect at all. I have found it extremely useful to keep a diary of the meds and their effects on her. A diary is also useful to keep track of mood changes or relapses. You may find that they are cyclical which allows you to prepare in advance.

Please remember to take care of yourself as well. This was a hard lesson for my husband and I to learn. Counseling and support groups for your daughter are important, but we have found counseling for us to be invaluable as well. It is always good to know that you are not alone.

If you would like more details, please PM me. I am in no ways an expert, but am always willing,to share my experiences.