November 16, 2009

The Balanced Mind Foundation Survey: Kids with Bipolar Disorder 
Severely Impaired

Evanston, IL—A nationwide survey released today by the The Balanced Mind Foundation (The Balanced Mind Foundation) shows that over 60% of the children of respondents have been hospitalized at least once and nearly 40% have had multiple hospitalizations, highlighting the severity of pediatric bipolar disorder and the need for support for patients and their families.

The survey also reveals that children and adolescents with bipolar disorder have received on average a total of three diagnoses. The diagnoses include Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Conduct Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, learning disabilities, depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Asperger’s Syndrome, and Tourette’s Syndrome.

According to The Balanced Mind Foundation Executive Director Susan Resko, the survey’s findings show that the diagnostic guide used by psychiatrists, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) does not adequately address the needs of children with these complex, overlapping disorders.

“Children with bipolar disorder are severely impaired and they do not fit into neat categories,” Resko said. “We need better diagnostic tools and better treatments.”

A substantial number of the children and teens have attended therapeutic day schools, alternative schools or residential treatment centers, respondents reported.

The Balanced Mind Foundation’s 2009 Membership Survey, an online survey conducted between September 2 and September 15, received more than 1,000 responses from parents and caregivers of children and adolescents with bipolar disorder. 61% of these children are between the ages of 13-22 and 39% are under the age of 13.

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The Balanced Mind Foundation is a national, not-for-profit organization of more than 27,000 families raising children diagnosed with bipolar disorder.  Its website, www.thebalancedmind.org, provides scientifically credible information and support for parents, including online support, advocacy tools, and a library of the latest research on pediatric bipolar disorder.  The Balanced Mind Foundation also offers a teen portal with podcasts, blogs and other information for teens and 20s.

CONTACT: For more information, contact Susan Resko at cabf@thebalancedmind.org or 847-492-8519