[winkynjr]

I am new to this site but between bipolar and self injury I need to try something different. I don't know what else to do anymore!!!!!

[Sam2]

Winky,
I know that biopolar medications can cause some unpleasant side effects, but they can also help keep your emotions more stable. Being a single mother is not easy under any circumstances, but has to be doubly so with your situation. There are several medications that can help these days, and if you feel that the side effects are worse than the cure, perhaps trying another would be a good idea. The quick changing emotions can be frightening to children, so remember to factor that into your decision to take your medications.

Please fight as hard as you can against self harm. I can tell you after fighting it for forty years that it brings very little relief and causes more problems than it cures. There are other ways of dealing with emotions that won't leave scars and guilt. If you have already started self harming, than you know how hard it is to stop. I had to make a promise to someone i cared deeply about in order to stop, so even though making a mental promise to your kids may not be as effective, when you have the urges, remember them and tell yourself that you aren't going to injure yourself in order to save them hurt.

Normally, I'd suggest you seek in patient therapy to get your present condition under control, but i don't know what your postition is as far as having someone who could stay with your children. If you do have a friend or family member who you think would be able to stay with them, then a short in patient stay or aggressive outpatient therapy might be in order. I know you don't want to feel this way. Taking radical steps to stop what is happening can be frightening enough to make you think twice, but it may be the best way to get yourelf back on your feet.

I wish you well.

Sam2