by Keisha Richards

Created on: December 20, 2009

As a mother who has been diagnosed as being bipolar, I have to say that, Yes!, a mother diagnosed as being bipolar can definitely be a good mother and raise a happy, healthy family.  It is disappointing to see others disagree with that statement.  Bipolar disorder is a mental disorder characterized by changes in mood, sometimes for what seems to be no reason at all.  It can be managed for many quite easily with the right medication and a physician willing to take the time to find the correct medication as there are very many different kinds.  While bipolar disorder can range from mild to severe,  many individuals who have out of control bipolar "episodes" are those who are not getting attention for their disorder or being medicated. 

While I am considered to have bipolar disorder to a certain degree,  I cannot say that I have ever lost my sense of reasoning and logic.  I have never felt on edge to the point where I could not make sound decisions regarding my children.  I believe that when others hear the word "bipolar", they assume that the individual affected is absolutely crazy and incapable of functioning in a normal life.  This is a very untrue statement.  Personally, my own emotions can be unpredictable but they are based on issues that I have with myself.  I find myself and a lot of others with bipolar disorder to have depression as well or some sort of "self" problems.  Many times a person is not just bipolar, but also has other underlying conditions that must be treated and acknowledged.

I think that children provide a stable environment; at least for me.  It has helped me, actually.  I wake each day knowing that I have two beautiful children that love me and that I love them unconditionally.  I care for them and we all have a schedule going each day.  Stability is definitely a big help for an individual suffering from bipolar disorder.

I do agree that some individuals have bipolar disorder to a more severe degree than others. I think some give up before a solution can be reached.  This is understandable, since a patient is usually written a prescription for some general antidepressant and sent out the door upon mentioning to his or her doctor feelings of anxiety or depression.  Bipolar disorder is a very delicate issue that mustn't be taken lightly, but a woman should not be considered unfit for parenting based on whether she has a mental condition, especially one that can be treated fairly easily with the right time and medication.

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