Is it ADHD, Mood disorder or BiPolar???

Kelly - posted on 01/11/2012

YES Exactly the Same situation here with my 10 yr old daughter. Bc of her age they cant call it full blown bipolar but it sure feels the same. We try desperatly to Battle her Drastic moods as she comes off of her ADHD Med in the afternoons it tends to get worse for her and its been terrible lately. we have had to ignore her terrible fits and wait it out. I am trying to deal with her behavior right now before changing her current meds. Makes us so tired some days and I Feel terrible for her being in trouble. But we need to teach her accountability despite mood disorder . All the same I would love to get her stable so she can live life Best of luck !

Kristin - posted on 01/09/2012

not really sure my daughter is diagnosed with ADHD but like i told the doctor i dont think it is ADHD i think hers is more ODD but now she is really getting violent and doesnt care if she hurts herself or others and is getting into alot of fights so i have a friend that has bipolar and she has some of the same things like one day she is really happy and really good then another day she is mad at the world and so depressed

Claire - posted on 04/07/2010

This is going to sound stupid, but I am 24, and I have BPD, Bi Polar and a whole list of diagnosis'. I have 4 children (3 with special needs). It doesn't make any difference what the label is. They treat symptoms, not the label. I am on Seroquel, Citalopram, Zopiclone, Diazepam, Chlorpromazine. This combination isn't working. It's not about finding out what the label is, it's about treating the 'symptoms' and actually, whether they come out and tell me I have something else makes no difference. I am still me. I am not the label. And I hate it when people say 'this is my friend with bi-polar' or whatever, I'd rather they just said 'this is my friend Claire'. I'm not saying life isn't hell, but don't get so het up on looking for a diagnosis, that may change a thousand more times, look at what needs treating right now. And actually, if someone has anxiety/bipolar or similar, the constant testing is more of a hindrance than a help. If i fill in one more form about my 'mental state' I'm going to stick it where the sun doesn't shine. Appreciate some of the good things, even if they are tiny. Relax a little. I know life is hell, but lets say tomorrow they tell you it's autism, your child is still the same person today as s/he will be tomorrow.

Angela - posted on 04/06/2010

I forgot to say we have been given many different meds and every time he has landed in the hospital or had to change pshychiatrists they have changed his meds sometimes within days of starting the last meds so know if you choose to try meds keep track and fight to keep the ones that work while they work! But do know some kids "outgrow" their meds and need a change so don't be afraid to ask for a change in them either. We have 7 younger children only one of them has had any behavior/mood trouble and is being tested for ADHD so as you can imagine 8 kids under 15 is craziness somedays but you do just have to keep pushing through for their sake, safety and security but also for your own self remember to take time away for you! :)

Angela - posted on 04/06/2010

I really thought maybe we were the only family in the world dealing with this exact situation. Since my son was in Kindergaten we struggles with behavior issues and finally in fourth grade we started seeing a counselor he was diagnosed ODD then a few years later we were told ADHD and finally about 2 years ago was started on treatment for Non Specific Mood Disorder and then a year ago at 14 we were told Bipolar and he was started on meds for that but they would not put it on paper as a formal diagnosis because of his age. Just a couple months ago they also told us he shows signs of a Personality Disorder but also won't put that on paper. So do you struggle with school? That is where we have a lot of trouble especially since his diagnosis on paper still stands as ODD and ADHD they are really a handful getting them to make changes with school schedule and behavior plans. I would love to talk with you more but don't always check here very often...if you would like you can email me at ASchoepel@aol.com.

Joli - posted on 03/30/2010

I can relate. My daughter is 6 and was diagnosed with ADHD last November. We placed her on Vyvanse 20mg and it seems to be helping. But mornings are the worst. I get so worn out having to "remind" her of the same things we do every morning! It takes her 1 hour plus to get ready...we have been late for school, work, etc. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to make our mornings "productive?" I have a "check-list" that has all her morning activities on it, but she "forgets" to look at at. Any suggestions would be great!

Angie - posted on 03/28/2010

My seven year old stepson has been diagnosed with developmental delays, learning disabilities, ADHD, ODD, bipolar disorder, bipolar tendencies, and now reactive attachment disorder. No one really seems to understand what is going on with him, which kind of gives me a hopeless feeling. How can we help him if we don't know what's wrong?

Sara - posted on 03/28/2010

i am going through something almost exactly like you. we had problems for two years and now they are saying austism, high functioning pdd, adhd, and a mood disorder but not ruling out bipolar. shes having outbusts almost daily and i myself have bipolar. it is sooo hard. i just need to find people who understand. email me at samacovitz@gmail.com

Kathleen/Deborah - posted on 12/07/2009

My HEART goes out to each and everyone of you! I drank alcohol the 1st trimester of my pregnuncy. I am 54, my son is 15. He was diagnosed with speech problelm at 3 and at 5 with ADHD then the list goes on and on.



ADHD brought on many behaviors. Gary does not have the facial markings of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome BUT nuerologically has effected his lifestyle. He is on 30mg of VYVANCE for ADHD and Resperdone for aggitation/aggression.



We have tried many other meds for ADHD! We have finally found the miracle meds for ADHD and that is VYVANCE!



We are in the process of putting in place a Behavioral Plan along with his IEP! Also considering a Section 504. You can check out www.helium.com for more information on different diagnosis.



May God Bless each and everyone of you with the Peace of God that surpasses all understanding.



Deb

Bridgett - posted on 12/05/2009

Mental Health..Font SizeA A A Mental Health: Oppositional Defiant Disorder
It's not unusual for children -- especially those in their "terrible twos" and early teens -- to defy authority every now and then. They may express their defiance by arguing, disobeying or talking back to their parents, teachers or other adults. When this behavior lasts longer than six months and is excessive compared to what is usual for the child's age, it may mean that the child has a type of behavior disorder called oppositional defiant disorder (ODD).

ODD is a condition in which a child displays an ongoing pattern of uncooperative, defiant, hostile and annoying behavior toward people in authority. The child's behavior often disrupts the child's normal daily activities, including activities within the family and at school.

Many children and teens with ODD also have other behavioral problems, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, learning disabilities, mood disorders (such as depression) and anxiety disorders. Some children with ODD go on to develop a more serious behavior disorder called conduct disorder.

Related Behavior Disorder: ADHD in Children
What Are the Symptoms of Oppositional Defiant Disorder?
Symptoms of ODD may include:

Throwing repeated temper tantrums
Excessively arguing with adults
Actively refusing to comply with requests and rules
Deliberately trying to annoy or upset others, or being easily annoyed by others
Blaming others for your mistakes
Having frequent outbursts of anger and resentment
Being spiteful and seeking revenge
Swearing or using obscene language
Saying mean and hateful things when upset
In addition, many children with ODD are moody, easily frustrated and have a low self-esteem. They also may abuse drugs and alcohol.

What Causes Oppositional Defiant Disorder?
The exact cause of ODD is not known, but it is believed that a combination of biological, genetic and environmental factors may contribute to the condition.

Biological: Some studies suggest that defects in or injuries to certain areas of the brain can lead to serious behavioral problems in children. In addition, ODD has been linked to abnormal amounts of special chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters help nerve cells in the brain communicate with each other. If these chemicals are out of balance or not working properly, messages may not make it through the brain correctly, leading to symptoms of ODD, and other mental illnesses. Further, many children and teens with ODD also have other mental illnesses, such as ADHD, learning disorders, depression or an anxiety disorder, which may contribute to their behavior problems.
Genetics: Many children and teens with ODD have close family members with mental illnesses, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders and personality disorders. This suggests that a vulnerability to develop ODD may be inherited.
Environmental: Factors such as a dysfunctional family life, a family history of mental illnesses and/or substance abuse, and inconsistent discipline by parents may contribute to the development of behavior disorders.How Common Is Oppositional Defiant Disorder?
Estimates suggest that 2%-16% of children and teens have ODD. In younger children, ODD is more common in boys. In older children, it occurs about equally in boys and in girls. It typically begins by age 8.
What Is the Outlook for Children With Oppositional Defiant Disorder?
If your child is showing signs of ODD, it is very important that you seek care from a qualified doctor immediately. Without treatment, children with ODD may experience rejection by classmates and other peers because of their poor social skills, and aggressive and annoying behavior. In addition, a child with ODD has a greater chance of developing a more serious behavioral disorder called conduct disorder. When started early, treatment is usually very effective.
Can Oppositional Defiant Disorder Be Prevented?
Although it may not be possible to prevent ODD, recognizing and acting on symptoms when they first appear can minimize distress to the child and family, and prevent many of the problems associated with the illness. Family members also can learn steps to take if signs of relapse (return of symptoms) appear. In addition, providing a nurturing, supportive and consistent home environment with a balance of love and discipline may help reduce symptoms and prevent episodes of defiant behavior.

Kelly - posted on 12/05/2009

i sent you a message but my oldest Abilene is adhd and bipolar has been since she was 5 my son Dylan who is 6 is adhd and i also have 3 more besides them and one on the way so if you need any tips or help let me know this goes for everyone

Jodie - posted on 12/05/2009

May I ask what is ODD? I have an ADHD 12 year old, combined type, medicated, many social issues, but I do not know what ODD is? Can you fill me in? We just changed schools once again! First year of Middle School, It has been difficult, many anxieties also.
Thank you,
Sorry I cannot help. I am curious though what ODD is?
Jodie

Dawn - posted on 12/05/2009

We are getting quite an education, aren't we, ladies? It's great we can help one another:):):) God bless, and Merry Christmas!!!

Bridgett - posted on 12/05/2009

My son is 6 years old, diagnosed at the age of 3 with ADHD. He's also has ODD and what they called agression, just had a neuropsycholical evaluation, now to be said he has destructive behavoir disorder. He was on Risperdal, but was having dystonic reaction, so dr took him off, although he was on Rispedal almost 2 years. We then tried Abilfy, yet same problem. He's not taking anything for his aggression, we're had the roughest 2 weeks. His outbursts can't start instantly for the smallest of things, He has a very low frustration level. Although the minus of medication, he currently takes the Daytrana Patch, Clonidine at mid day and bedtime to sleep, Prevacid for acid reflux, Loradine and a nasal spray for his allergies. And soon something for his aggression. He's been on almost ADHD med, which I've told his dosage was high as a 12 year old. He has severe ADHD. I'm going to talk to his Dr next Thursday and try seroquel. Yes if he was older they say he'd have Bipolar or depression. It's been a very difficult time, so I can definetly relate. Hang in their, it's not easy, I'm a single parent, but I am my only son's advocate. So do what you have to. Get 2nd opionis if need, only you know your child best and what he needs. ..Just remember your not alone, their are other parents expericening the same problems, and challenges with their children...Good Luck and Happy Holidays

Michelle - posted on 12/03/2009

Don't give up! That is the only thing that I can tell all of you! I tell you this because it's the only thing that I myself want to hear. I am dealing with a lot of this with not only one step son that lives in my house, but this and additional problems with one that is at my house two days a week. Some days are very frustrating and I feel like giving up, but then they do something great and they melt your heart all over again! I can't give up on them because they need as many things in their life stable as possible. I want to be one of those stability points!



I struggle with the school pushing them through.....with the teacher's constantly saying he needs to be more responsible......well guess what people giving him more responsibility DOESN'T work! So look at me with this crazy look in your eyes wondering what the heck I am doing, if it works for my kids then you, as his teacher and basically my employee because I pay the taxes that pay your wages will need to help me out a little!



I do want to add that there are teacher's out there that are more than willing to help, unfortunately, sometimes they seem very few and far between! Thank you to those of you teacher's who do bend over backwards!



I end this with a wish for each and every one of you who celebrate Christmas a very Merry Christmas and for those of you who don't, a happy holiday. DON'T GIVE UP!

Michelle - posted on 12/02/2009

My 11 year old son was first diagnosed at the age of 4 with ADHD and ODD. Then over the years, they have added and subtracted diagnosis. I just had him tested to "rule out" autism and have a new diagnoses. He is now classified as ADHD/ODD/Mood Disorder NOS/ PDD/ PTSD & Generalized Anxiety Disorder. He is in the 6th grade working at a 2nd grade level & it feels like the school district is just "pushing" him through the system. I have an IEP for him and just updated it to include a scribe and a word processing unit for his work. He has hand tremors and has a hard time writing. I know the frustrations of many med changes, at one time Albert was on 18 different meds, and now he is on Topamax (for severe migraines), Focalin, Claritin, Singulair, Seroquel, Visteral, Abilify and Zoloft. Albert has many other medical issues including migraines, asthma, severe allergies and he was born with hypospadius (a deformity of the penis). He has had three reconstruction surgeries, undescended testes brought down, his appendix out, his tonsil out and his adenoids.

Some days as a single parent, since he was 6 months old, I get really frustrated and want to give up, but I know that I am the only safety net he has to hold onto so I continue to plug away. I am so grateful to know that there are other parents out there that are dealing with these same issues. Even though I don't know any of you, I thank you for sharing your stories and being here to listen to others. Hope you all have the happiest of holidays.

Amanda - posted on 12/02/2009

My son is 7 and was diagnosed with Bi-polar. They did not beat around the bush with other mood disorders.

Sharon - posted on 12/01/2009

hi i got a 7yr old boy,im waiting for the tests 2 be done he has learning needs he is like a 2 yr old,he has very bad moods gets violent each time,its amzing how strong they actually r for the age,i have been battling this since he was 9mths old i noticed a difference with him,he would only sleep for a hour at a time the peadiatrian has given him some tablets 2 help him go 2 sleep,he is very hyper dont have any fear of anything,he hits people as they walk past he will also give people abuse,im still having a fighting battle 2 get him sorted,i just wish they would hurry up&sort it,non of my family will have him at all coz of his behavour i just take it day by day,

Cherice - posted on 11/30/2009

Hi..My daughter is 7yrs old and will be 8 in January. Last year she was diagnosed with ADHA, Anxiety, ODD and Bipolar. It's been a challenging past 1 1/2 years for me as a single parent when it comes to dealing with this, as we go to Dr apts every 2 weeks to deal with the challenges. I would love to chat with you if you would like to. My Dr has given me some good tips on how to handle the disabilities so let me know if you would like to talk.

Linda - posted on 11/29/2009

Same here Christy. My daughter is 13 and have been going through this since she was in second grade. I was so excited when they finally admitted her to a day treatment program a few weeks ago. I said I really want to know EXACTLY what is wrong with my daughter. Well, guess what...Mood Disorder, NOS... great!! Only can say just take it day and day...that is what I try to do.

Patricia - posted on 11/28/2009

hi there all this sounds very very familiar my son is 17 now but yes first diagnosis adhd then oppositional defiant disorder , then mood disorder now bipolar nos.
its a long road that you are just beginning i will love to help you in what ever questions you have. patients and faith is important. i also have an 11 year old diagnose with adhd.
also very important take care of your self eat good sleep good,cause he needs you.
God bless you your little one and the rest of your family

Dawn - posted on 11/25/2009

Sounds similar to where I was 14 years ago with my 22-year-old son. Just a couple of tidbits to keep perspective:) Some combinations of meds work great for some people, but not others. So every so often you may need to support your son as he changes medications - again. Another thing I learned was that diagnoses run hand-in-hand with other diagnoses. It sounds so awful - when they start with all the abbreviations - like there are so many things "wrong" - but when you look at the diagnoses as a starting point to where your family can get help - it's not so overwhelming:) Make sure that you get some special time for yourself when you can - and don't feel guilty about it:):):)

Dena - posted on 11/25/2009

My son was diagnosed at the age of 5 with bipolar, sensory integration disorder and adhd. The doctors have changed his meds aprox. 30 times, he is now seeing a psychiatrist monthly to keep a check on his meds and he also goes to occupational therapy and he sees a therapist weekly, he is now 7 and most days are ok, it is getting better, hang in there.

Kerri - posted on 11/23/2009

i have a bipolar w adhd 6yr old son and ya they dont wanna label him with bipolar so they put it as mood disorder unspecified everyday is like hell tho...mines not on any meds yet for the bipolar just the adhd and hes on 40mg of strattera...i do have a friend whose little girl is bipolar and 7 and she is on ambilify

Drager - posted on 11/20/2009

My son was dx odd at 4 adhd at 5 bi-polar at 61/2 and he is now 9 and about to be evaluated for aspergers. The dx of mood disorder NOS is just them being safe because mood fluctuations are a symptom in a lot of different disorders that may come out as he grows. A lot of drs don't believe or think that children can be bi-polar so this is a safer dx. Its sometimes hard to find the right combo of meds. What I experience is we find a great combo then after time it stops being effective and we have to switch to something else. Its easy to get discouraged I know, just keep your head up.



Sit down and make a list of your sons strengths

ie: he has a great sense of humor, man he can tell a joke, hes loyal, happy

This exercise was given to me by a really wonderful therapist and it really helps me to except my son and his disorder.



Good luck hope we can chat and exchance technique :)

Sjockiea - posted on 11/17/2009

My son is seven and he has been diagnosed with ADHD, anixety disorder, a learning disorder and a mood disorder. The doctor are saying that the mood disorder is Bipolor disorder. I would suggest having a psych test done if he has not already had one because I just had one completed for my son., The doctors at first were having a hard time at first giving him the diagnosis of bipolar because of his age but his symptoms were so clear cut the had to and the psych testing proved it.

Brandy - posted on 11/13/2009

A lot of times, they don't want to specifically diagnose children with "Bipolar Disorder" until they are older. However, consider this. Your child is receiving treatment regardless. It doesn't really matter the diagnosis, as long as he/she is receiving the treatment they need.

However, if it is an issue of funding, talking to another doctor to get a second opinion, may help. In some instances, like with Asperger's/Autism, having this diagnosis can open up funding opportunities to help get the right treatment. However, if he's getting the treatment the same as a Bipolar patient would, how vital is it? More than likely, when he gets older they will update the diagnosis. Also, N.O.S. and Bipolar are different. He may have a disorder NOS, but not Bipolar. My youngest has BOTH. Please let me know if I can help any more. Good Luck.

Kristi - posted on 11/12/2009

I completely understand what u r going through. My son Caleb is 9 and we having been battling for 5 years. The doctors keep saying something different. He has been diagnosed for ADD/ADHD, ODD, Bipolar....he has been given every stimulant on the market as of to date, but nothing has worked. Last Friday we started homeschooling because his behavior was so out of control teachers were calling me everyday. I felt mortified and so sympathetic for the teachers because I know how my son is. Im hoping this one on one with him is exactly what he needs. Caleb seen his dr. yesterday and was prescribed Tegretol to stabilize his mood, all I can do is continue hoping and praying this works. Im sorry to hear u are have the same problems I am, I dont wish this on anyone. I wish there was more I could do but if I find something that may help my son, I will be sure to pass it on to u. Sincerely, Kristi

LoLo - posted on 11/12/2009

My son was diagnosed ADHD at age 5 and then by age 6 he was diagnosed Bi-Polar & ADHD. He is now 10 and after about 35 different meds.....he seems to be doing much better. We still have to deal with many outbursts of anger but nothing like it used to be. I knew from about 18 months old, something was different with this child. He is now doing much better now that he is on the "right" combination of meds and is going to a really good ESE school. Its the hardest thing I have ever been through so just hang in there..........

Renee - posted on 11/12/2009

My son now 12 was diagnosed early onset bipolar at 5 due to his fecal smearing..Nigel realy struggled from 5-7 until we found a med mix that worked.Nigel also has svere ADHD and intermittent explosive disorder on top of Osteogenesis Imperfecta(brittle bone diseease) and mild CP.Feel free to add me as a freind so we can chat or send me a message with questions.It was rough for awhile there.He takes 200mg Tegretol ,25mg of Hydroxyzine twice a day and 15mg of Remeron for sleep..We just changed his meds in June.He's a different childWe got his first report card Monday.90,95,95,71,71,79 and an S in Conduct!!!!!!!His first S in almost 2 yrs.It's amazing what can happn with the right med combo to help with moods.

Marinda - posted on 11/12/2009

My son is 14 and has been diagnosed at the age of 7 with ODD, ADHD, Bipolar, separation disorder, manic depression... the list goes on and on. I was told the same thing about Bipolar. His age.. It is hard to get a diagnoses for bipolar at a young age, but it don't stop them from treating it. I have a lot of info and can tell you what I have been through.. If you need to chat send me a message.

Marinda

Pam - posted on 11/12/2009

I know exactly what you are going through. My son seemed to change over night when he was 10, and was diagnosed with ADD, ODD, and mood disorder NOS. Now he is 13, and they are saying that it is most likely bipolar. I have been very frustrated with not knowing what it is, but have come to realize that the label doesn't really matter. It is useful to find the right meds, but if the meds are right the dx doesn't matter. Unfortunately we have been struggling for about 6 months without the right med combination, and that has created a very volatile and unstable child. Hopefully, we will find the right combination soon. Feel free to ask me any questions. Pam

SABRINA - posted on 11/11/2009

my nine year old son jamison was dx with adhd, odd, bipolar and generalized anxiety disorder shortly after he turned 5 he has been on many different meds but is now on vyvanse and periactin

Kathy - posted on 11/10/2009

my son has a genetic issue, but also has autism and most recently was diagnosed w/ a mood disorder. The autims spectrum is so broad that its not always easy to declare, and if you throw a mood disorder in ( they often go hand in hand) then watch out. My son (15) has had behavior issues at school( not at home) w/in the last 2 yrs. and would fly into a melt down while there for no apparent reason. Recently his psychiatrist identified that he has a mood disorder in w/ the mod. autism, dev. delays, genetic disorder, OCD ,Sensory Integration disorder, et that we already knew he had. We were only seeing a peds neuro. at first, then he recommended a psychiatrist to help w/med. regulations. It was the best thing we did. This dr. is knowledgable about autism et al and has been wonderfully supportive. With his help we have been able to help our son find some peace. Of course it didn't help that he's in the middle of puberty....LOL Our son has always been behind on most dev. milestones EXCEPT for that. It can really stir up the mix. Hang in there. It does get better.

Inderia - posted on 11/09/2009

My son is now 12. He was diagnosed with ODD at age 4 and ADHD at age 8. At the moment no treatment seems to be working. Aspergers was also thrown in the mix. We don't know what to do or were to go. His behavior seems to be getting worse the older he gets.

Lisa - posted on 11/09/2009

Been there, done that, and wore the tshirt till it fell apart.

My son was diagnosed with adhd at 5, odd at 6, mood disorder at 7, severe anxiety at 8, bipolar at 9 and Aspergers/PDD-NOS at 11. To me it doesn't matter what they call it, as long as he's getting treatment that is helping him to make it through the day.