I agree with BM, and just want to add on to the genetic componant. I'm 1 of 6 children, the only bipolar in my family. So it's really not as cut and dry and bleak as it may look. We're all dealt our cards and have to learn to play our hands accordingly, and not in fear of which card we may get next. My daughter is 8y.o btw, so far so good all round. Happy,healthy child who understands her mom has 'off' days, and loves me just the same. It's not a walk in the park, but completely do-able