Local Meetings for Parents

SUPPORT GROUP FOR PARENTS OF BIPOLAR CHILDREN TO MEET March 13, 2010 in Rapid City.  Contact: Melissa Kelly 605-431-5199 bipolarmom315@hotmail.com FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 13, 2010    The support group for parents of children who have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder will meet in the Rushmore Room at Rapid City Regional Hospital, 353 Fairmont Blvd in Rapid City on Saturday March 13, 2010 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.   Anyone who is interested in learning more about this disorder is welcome to attend. Especially grandparents, other family members and friends of a child with Bipolar disorder.   Bipolar disorder in children is thought to affect over one million children in this country alone, but, it is often mistaken for ADHD or depression. It is estimated that one-third of the children who are being diagnosed with attention-deficit disorder with hyperactivity are actually suffering from early symptoms of bipolar disorder. A recent study that examined children who first had bouts of depression reported that almost 50% went on to manifest the bipolar form of the disorder.   The cardinal symptoms of early-onset bipolar disorder are rapid shifts in mood: the child can veer from irritable, easily annoyed, angry mood states to silly, goofy, giddy elation and social withdrawal, fraught with self-recrimination and suicidal thoughts. These abrupt shifts in mood can occur several times a day. Temper tantrums--rages--that go on for protracted periods and during which the child can become very aggressive are also common, as are grandiose thinking and behavior, racing thoughts, and defiance and may also suffer severe separation anxiety, night terrors, distractibility, and impulsivity.   The disorder is thought to be highly genetic, but is eminently treatable with mood stabilizers, therapy and accommodations at school.   Families dealing with such an ill child can quickly become exhausted, traumatized and isolated, and this new group intends to provide support, friendship, information and referrals to the parents, grandparents and friends. The main focus will be to tell their own stories, trade information, and give and gain support. In the future we hope to feature health professionals to provide current information about the disorder.   For further information about the group and the meeting please call 605-431-5199 or email bipolarmom315@hotmail.com.

South Dakota Assistance Programs

Resources for Finding Child Care

• Request a List of State-Registered Providers in your area
• Helpline - Sioux Falls and surrounding area
• Early Childhood Connections - West River
• Family Resource Network - Brookings Area
• Early Childhood Partners - Aberdeen Area
• Early Childhood Training Network - Pierre Area

Online Resources for Parents