Struggling to cope with school.

WhitLo
Fri, 20 Sep 2013 17:53:00 +0000

I’m usually on the Alabama forum, and I’m not really sure why this page even popped up on my IPad. But I’m glad it did, because I can offer a great deal of advice. My son is 17. A year ago he was diagnosed as bipolar (mild) and also has anxiety issues. He is quite intelligent and like you really wants to go to college. And I think he will do so successfully because he has worked hard to learn the skills he will need to cope. So, this is what I suggest.

1. Involve your parents. If you can’t, find an adult somewhere you trust to guide you. Ask your school counselor to guide you if that’s an available option.

2. Get a better psychiatrist. Be very willing to endure the challenges of medication trials. It took a year to find my son’s current combination and I expect we will make some more changes. Expect side effects but know that the right meds are out there. Be willing to chart your moods and symptoms and to communicate them to your doctor. My son says he would rather not take meds, but understands and appreciates how they make it possible to be stable and productive. He bombed on ssri’s but is doing well on mood stabilizers. There are many options for a skilled doctor to try.

3. Search for a therapist you trust and work well with. Meds are only part of the solution. As you improve on meds you need to learn self management and coping skills. Ask your parents to go with you if possible. Be willing to be uncomfortable and challenged. It will help.

4. Accept help from your teachers. Show them you want to succeed by advocating for your unique needs. Fair does not always mean equal.

I’m talking to you as a mom and a teacher. We can offer advice through online forums but you need more direct, face to face, and consistent support. Accepting isn’t a weakness but a way of seeking success for yourself.