Suggestions for Physicians Treating Parents with Bipolar Disorder

October 25, 2013 · Posted in Current Treatments, Potential Treatments

Support Pregnant Women with Bipolar Disorder
A. Depression during pregnancy is more common among women with bipolar disorder than among controls–consider cognitive behavioral therapy, omega-3 fatty acids, folate, & rTMS
B. 52% incidence of post-partum depression (3x higher than controls)–Monitor closely and treat accordingly
Ask Your Affectively Ill Patients About Their Children
Encourage Good Diet and Exercise in These Children
Encourage Watchful Waiting in Families with Children at High Risk
If a Child becomes Symptomatic, Suggest:
A. Family Focused Therapy (FFT), or other Family-Based Treatment
B. Low-Risk Interventions Like Nutrition and Sleep Hygiene
If a Child Develops BP-NOS, Encourage:
A. Mainstream Pharmacotherapy
B. Increased Social Support (Family, Friends, Advocacy)
If a Child Develops BP-I, Encourage Ongoing Monitoring & Medication
If an Adolescent Becomes Manic, Educate About Substance Abuse and Attempt Primary Prevention of a Substance Abuse Disorder

Tags: adolescents, bipolar disorder, children, family history, parents

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Although the editors of BipolarNews.org have made every effort to report accurate information, much of the work referenced here is in abstract or pre-publication form, and may not have received proper review by the scientific community at this time. Patients should consult with their physicians about any treatment decisions. Physicians should consult the peer-reviewed literature.