bipolar statistics in children
Does anyone out there have regrets about their decision to have kids?
I am 28 and happily married. I grew up assuming I would have children but my husband and I have been throwing around the idea of not having kids. I am also bipolar and have been on medication for many years. My shrink says he thinks I’d make a great mom but I’m not so sure I could handle it. I don’t want to pass my illness on to my child and I’m terrified that my problems would really screw up a kid. I have also seen a lot of statistics that show that couples often go downhill in their relationship after having kids. On the other hand I would love to experience being pregnant and raising a family. I’m so afraid if we go the childless route I’ll regret it for the rest of my life.
Serious answers only and please don’t judge.
I too have bipolar disorder and take medication. Almost two years ago I had a beautiful daughter. In the beginning it was very difficult and I had trouble with post pardum depression. As my daughter has gotten older I have enjoyed her more and more.
While my husband and I don’t have sex as often as we once did (because we are busier with our daughter), I feel closer to him and appreciate him more than ever. I also feel he cares about me more.
As to passing on bipolar disorder according to some information the chance of passing it on is 1 in 7. There is also an increased chance of depression. Personally I think it depends on your family history. My psychiatrist described a family where the grandmother,mother, one of two uncles, and 3 of the 4 children had bipolar disorder. In my family my grandmother, father, an uncle, myself and 1 of my 5 brothers and sisters have the disorder. So I feel there is a chance my daughter won’t have.
Having a child has been the greatest experience of my life. As to “screwing up a kid” all parents do it there are no perfect parents.
Having a child is a personal choice and if you don’t think you are ready you might wait a little longer. But I don’t think you should let your disease stop you.
You might contact the DBSA (Depression and Bipolar Disorder Alliance). They offer support groups and may be able to help you find more information about having children while having bipolar disorder.
Frontline -The Medicated Child 1 of 6
