After hearing what David and I have been witnessing with Ethan the doctor called her nurse in to take him away for a little while so she could talk to me without distractions. She put her elbows on her knees and leaned in to tell me the news.
I must admit that I am frightened by the latest news about Ethan's behavior issues. I really do feel like I'm in over my head...that I've taken on too much...that I'm ill-equipped for the task at hand...
Ethan's Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) has been upgraded to a Conduct Disorder (CD). For the purposes of time and my sanity I'll let you guys go directly to these websites to find out about his disorders.
Ethan was also diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder (BP).
This is the disorder that frightens me the most. Since yesterday I have read more about BP than I have in my entire lifetime...and to be honest, it scares me to think that this is something that Ethan, David and I will have to deal with for the rest of his life.
I bet you're wondering about treatment. First, we'll be seeking psychiatric help from Cook's Children's through family counseling and parenting classes. Second, he will be taking a medication called Rispedal that should help him manage his moods and level out. There are lots of scary side effects but the result will hopefully be a more manageable and less anti-social child.
Anyway...that's all the news I have for you regarding this so far...stay tuned, I'm sure there will be more later!
6 comments:
still praying for you, hubs, and that ADORABLE boy. love the pic.
He is such a handsome little boy. I'm sorry that the news was not something you were expecting, but knowing what you are dealing with has to be better than not knowing.
I have a friend whose niece was diagnosed with all the same things at about the age of six and now as a 13 year old, has been a different child. There is hope, mostly in the LORD (and I will continue to pray for your family) but it sounds like your doctors are capable as well.
Hugs.
Wow. Alot to handle, but I know the Lord has a purpose for it all and in giving it to you and Davide and Ethan to bear. Hang in there!
I don't think you should ever feel ill-equipped. Reading about how much you love Ethan and all the things you are doing for him proves that you are anything but ill-equipped. Ethan is a lucky little boy to have such an amazing mother. You're exactly what he needs - God knew what he was doing when he gave Ethan to you. You and your family remain in my thoughts and prayers.
Sorry to hear what you are going through. It is scary but with the guidance of God and his doctors you will make it through. I will be praying for you and your family!
Have you considered dietary changes? Such as gluten free and sugar free? I've heard lots of good things about this in regards to many disorders. I know diet and exercise can help with bipolarism. (I was in a relationship with a bipolar man and understand that is can be bad, but that is can also become manageable.)
Good luck on your journey, I'll be checking in on you. I have my own road with a very allergic daughter and we are going to the doctor tomorrow to see what can be done...poor little kids, I hate to see them suffer.
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