Hello,

I am told that I need to find a "support group" for myself.  It seems there isn't a lot out there and was wondering if anyone is sharing my experiences or maybe at this stage in the game I could even offer some advice as far as resources in the state of WA.  I've been through the court system with my daughter who started to have "issues" at 12 years old.

She has always been a chore and difficult to parent.  I had no idea that when my daughter was 2 years old throwing RAGING fits what exactly I was in for.  It has been tough and honestly has only got tougher.  My heart goes out to anyone who has had to endure teen years.  They have taken a toll on my in so many ways it can't even be put into words. 

If anyone out there has any words of wisdom PLEASE enlighten me!!!  Right now, I'm just trying to accept the fact that I have to let my daughter go and can no longer chase her around trying to "save" her. 

Blessings,

Heidi

Are you familiar with the Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation?

http://www.bpkids.org/

There are many resources available through them and online support groups as well.

My own son is 11 and approaching puberty like a hurricane.

He's also been diagnosed with high-functioning autism as well, even though I was told for years that he can't possible be autistic. So make sure that you have a complete diagnosis.

(((hugs)))

Sorry it has taken so long for me to reply.  Thank you so much for yours!  I haven't checked out that link but will plan on doing so tonight.  Right now I'm doing the "tough love" thing which is SO HARD.  She has been DX with Bipolar for quite some time now.  We started all of it in 5th grade and went through the motions of ADD/ADHD/ODD so on and so forth.  She actually has also been told that she may have BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder) which really is so close to BD (Bipolar Disorder) 

Years ago I was DX with Borderline Personality Disorder and while I went through lots of counseling and am not taking the medication I once was i know it's still there.  I deal with it on a daily basis for the most part but she has gone a different direction than I did.  When I was her age I went out on my own because I HAD to, she is going this way because she CHOOSES to.  I can't relate. 

My heart goes out to you and your family.  I remember my daughter at that age and it was just the tip of the iceberg. (little did I know) but with puberty.....OMGoodnes!!  Tough stuff for sure!!

Thank you again for your post!

Heidi