Living with a bipolar child can be very tough. Families must cope with explosive meltdowns, unpredictable mood swings and sometimes violent behavior. Parents aren’t the only people who struggle with a bipolar child however. Siblings of these children often live in fear, concerned about their own safety as well as the safety of their brother or sister. The children in the group often express their love for their sibling, but struggle to understand why their sibling can be so hard to live with. Children in the Siblings of Bipolar youth support group are given an opportunity to discuss their situation with other kids going through something similar. Children are encouraged to share their own examples of effective coping mechanisms. Youth Services staff also offer suggestions on how to deal with difficult situations, while educating and processing with the children the effects of bipolar disorder.
“I’d like to let you know what a big difference your program and staff have made to my family. My 10 year old daughter came home from the first sibling support group last week feeling thrilled and elated. She said, “Mom, I feel so good. I wish we could go to support group every day, not just Tuesdays. It was great to know there are other kids who go through what I go through and feel the way I do about my brother.”
