This book will show a parent or caregiver how to identify the symptoms of depression in his or her child, teen or young adult one--and how to help the child get effective treatment. In the process, we will explore the phenomenon of caregiver burnout, which too often occurs when someone is caring for a person with a mental illness. Topics covered will include:
• How to Recognize the Symptoms of Depression, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD in Your Child
• Taking the First Steps to Help Your Child
• How to Respond If Your Child Refuses Help
• A Parent's Guide to Psychiatric Medications
• Substance Abuse and Your Child's Depression
• Keeping Your Child Safe: Suicide Prevention
• The Decision to Hospitalize
• Caring For Yourself to Avoid Caregiver Burnout
• How to be Mental Health Advocate for Your Young Adult Child (ages 18-30)
• How to Form a Circle of Healing For Your Child
In addition, the book will contain numerous real-life stories from parents and caregivers depicting how they helped their children with depression and bipolar disorder. Finally, the book closes with an inspirational account of one young person's mental health recovery--told from the perspective of the young adult and his father.