So, Angela, it’s crunch time. Your boy has been diagnosed as bipolar. I’m sure you were devastated by the news, but you also displayed considerable courage in facing the issue head on. What now?

First, it may be wise to think of your son’s diagnosis as provisional. Certainly, that’s the way his psychiatrist is treating it. One reason is a natural reluctance against diagnostic and treatment overkill. Another is that though there is widespread expert consensus that bipolar disorder does break out in kids, there is not yet total agreement on the precise nature of the illness in its early-onset form. Finally, life is full of surprises - tomorrow a new kink in your boy’s behavior or reaction to treatment may turn up.

And, most important, please be hopeful about your boy’s prospects. You mention that “he has come a long way in the past four months.” No doubt, there will be setbacks together with more heartbreak and frustration, but you should be able to look forward to your boy enjoying his childhood and leading a fulfilling adulthood.

Finally, I detect in your posts a boy who may be different, but different in many good ways. In an increasingly brutish and insensitive world, your boy comes across as gentle and sensitive. No doubt he has other gifts. You may have to nurture him more than his older brother, but don’t rule out the thought that he will be the source of your greatest satisfaction.

I know I’m rambling on a bit, Angela, and, believe it or not, I am not finished. But I will call it a day for now. Think of this post as Part One of my reply. Part Two - which I intend to work on today - will focus on the child bipolar issues. Maybe there will be a Part Three. You have raised some very critical issues, Angela, which deserve a full airing. Please stay tuned ...