BiPolar Child

[momdzn]

I believe my daughter ( 7 almost 8 ) is bipolar and has been for about 1.5 years. I am trying to weed through all information. But I was wondering if anyone is using alternative therapies. And no, she hasn't been diagnosed by a professional. But I believe she has an imbalance due to her birth, she was a vaginal brow presentation.

[bobococo]

Cranial sacaral therapy might be helpful. Fish oil tabs (omega 3-6-9) as well.

bobococo

[Igraine]

I work in child mental health and hear from parents all the time that they want something otherthan medications to treat their child.

If your dd is truly bipolar, she may very well need medications. But she may have some other things going on and I would encourage you to try as many things as you can to rule out bipolar. Both bobococo's suggestions are great. Really look at your diet. There are some big behavior changes that can occur when families overhaul their diet. Here is a good place to start. The Feingold has been very successful with families with kids who are autistic, have severe allergies (which can cause behavior problems), ADHD and other seemingly mental health issues.

http://www.everydiet.org/feingold_diet.htm

Get an Occupational therapy eval (many OT's are also trained in cranial sacral therapy). Maybe she has some sensory issues that could easily be remedied with brushing or other easy "hard work" tasks.

Read everything. Because if you try everything (safe stuff...I do not recommend any herbs because in reality they are drugs and are not tested on children and could very well exacerbate behaviors, just like psychotropic medications do.): I am not an herbalist and some people may disagree with me, but with kids I try to use as little medication as possible.

*Homeopathic remedies, flower essences, aromatherapy are all areas well worth investigating too.*

What are some of your dd's symptoms that make you think she is bipolar? I am curious if there is some family history that makes you feel so strongly about this. Please let me know if I can be of any help. I wish you and your little girl the best.