10 year old, family history -- possible BP at this age? Q: Ever since my child, Pam, now 10 years old, was born, she has been different from every child I have ever known. I often ask myself how 3 children, born of the same 2 parents, eating the same foods, being raised in the same home can be so different. Pam's mood swings have always been extreme. I was adopted when I was 13 and did not know much about family history. I now know that my father was diagnosed with "manic depression" and is now in prison due to his problems. Recently, Pam has been more extreme than usual, a new job for me, the early onset of puberty and a less than understanding teacher are all qualifying factors. I have asked the school psycologist to begin testing to see where she is at, he is looking into clinical depression, because all they see in school is a sad little girl with a low self esteem. At home, I see a different child, a wonderful artist and actress...very creative...but mean, nasty mean at times. Do you think bipolar disorder is out of the question? Dear Ms. J' -- Dr. Phelps |