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Parenting With Bipolar Disorder

In some ways, parents with bipolar disorder may have an advantage over parents without this illness. You have experience dealing with the ups and downs of life, and you know there are times when you're going to need help--that's why you're here! But you have to be careful to ensure your child's safety and healthy growth as well. You want your child to thrive, not just get by.

  1. Get Support

    • Support helps you keep going when symptoms return, when you need help solving problems or just when you need to connect. Professional support provides medication and therapy to help keep symptoms under control. Support groups allow you to connect with others who can share experiences and coping skills. Partners, family and friends offer a chance to take time off from parenting, refresh the batteries and even step in when parenting is too much. Any of the above people can give you the important reality checks you need to ensure you're doing the best for your kids.

    Educate Yourself

    • Consider a parenting program. A 2005 study by Dr. Rachel Calam at the University of Manchester has shown that parents with bipolar disorder who participate in a parenting education program report that their children's behavior improves and they themselves feel more confident as parents--who wouldn't want that?

      And unfortunately, children whose parents have bipolar disorder are more prone to mental health problems themselves. Encourage your child to share his feelings. Visit the SAMHSA website to learn the signs of childhood mental illness and monitor your child's emotions and behaviors. Let your child's doctor know of any concerns.

    Establish Routines

    • Your goal should be to have a minimal interruption in your child's life when you are ill. Consider separating the day into structured periods such as learning time, active time, dinner at the table and relaxation. If you can, have special time with your child once a week. Establishing routines will provide a sense of day-to-day stability for your child when you may not feel that stability.

    Educate Your Child

    • Telling your child about your bipolar disorder will help him to understand what you're going through and ensure that he doesn't feel responsible when you are sick. Be brief and explain at an age-appropriate level what bipolar disorder is and how you're helping yourself stay well. Be sure to acknowledge the child's feelings and invite questions.

    Take Care of Yourself

    • Get some physical activity every day if you can. In addition to the other health effects of exercise, the brain chemicals produced will help your mood. Get plenty of rest--especially important if you have mania--eat well and consider relaxation techniques such as mindfulness meditation to help you moderate and maintain a consistent mood.

      Work toward the goal of monitoring and moderating your emotions and teach your children to do so as well. This will help you feel confident that you are managing your illness well and being an effective parent.

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