Customer Reviews

Mommy I'm Still in Here: Raising Children with Bipolar Disorder

5 star:		(22)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

In "Mommy I'm Still in Here" author Kate McLaughlin clearly communicates what it's like to raise kids diagnosed with a serious mental illness. Honesty is the primary focus here, and McLaughlin does not sugar-coat the hard realities of living with Bipolar Disorder. She not only shows what symptoms look like and how emotions feel, but also sheds light on the inadequacies and successes of modern psychiatric treatment, the strain on family dynamics, and the personal growth necessary to navigate very difficult circumstances. Many scenes are frightening, even horrifying, and deeply sad, but the reader feels encouraged and hopeful, perhaps even empowered, in the end. In addition to her personal perspective, McLaughlin has thoroughly researched her topic and shares facts and resources that will help anyone seeking information or support. Going a long way toward creating understanding and acceptance of the millions diagnosed with a serious mental illness, "Mommy I'm Still in Here" is informative for all and a must-read for anyone who struggles with mental illness or loves someone who does.

As a mother of two children with mental illness, Kate McLaughlin has not only written about my family, but about hundreds of other families as well. We want them to have quality of life, opportunities for a successful life and choices that allow them to exhibit and explore the special qualities they have. We love them. We want you to accept them.

Deborah Rose NAMI TX Director of Educational Development

This "no holds barred" account of a mother, daughter, son and family grappling with the ravages of bipolar disorder should be required reading for therapists, psychiatrists, nursing staff, parents, extended family, friends, and educators. McLaughlin's writing is grippingly beautiful even as she takes you by the hand and leads you into the horrors that Bipolar Disorder inflicts. Most important, is the honesty with which she writes. As a result, the reader is able to find hope in the beauty and richness that McLaughlin demonstrates can be found even in the face of, and the aftermath of chaos. It is clear that this book was written from the soul, guts and heart of this mother. It is no wonder that her children are so remarkable. Thank you Kate (and Chloe and Michael) for helping break the silence and denounce the shame of mental illness.

This is a most helpful book about childhood bipolar disorder. We have a grandson who is 7 and has suffered with bipolar since infancy. (Didn't know what it was then...just knew he was one easily frustrated and miserable kid -- or, conversely, the most beautiful and placid baby!) Anyway, I highly recommend this book to parents and grandparents of children from 0 to 20 with bipolar. Author is so candid and yet upbeat. She made us feel completely understood with the pendulum swing of our OWN moods while coping with a misdiagnosed and suicidal 3 yr old! God bless the author for sharing her trials and providing hope for us! LOVE THE TITLE -- PERFECT!!

I started reading this book at 9:30 in the morning and couldn't set it down until I finished later that same night with tears in my eyes and hope in my heart. This is not just a story of dealing with bi-polar, but one of overcoming adversity, unconditional love, perserverence and the bond between a mother and a child. I can see that this would be a lifeline for any family facing the devastation of bi-polar or any type of health issue for that matter. This book was extremely well written and touched me in so many ways that I have purchased additional copies as gifts for families that I know need the honesty and encouragement that they will find in McLaughlin's book.

One family's experience with bipolar disorder was the impetus for this insightful book about how a Mother dealt with two of her children being diagnosed with mental illness. Kate McLaughlin has recounted her journey with intense emotion, offering hope to those who find themselves parenting children with disabilities. Can be given with confidence to anyone you know that is struggling.

An incredibly personal and yet educational story. The author shares her journey of confusion, pain ,learning and love that is inspirational to all of us. Although I started with no information about bipolar disorder..I ended with a sense of deep compassion around the complexities of every day living with mental illness. While the subject is serious the book ends with a spirit of renewal and hope leaving the reader wanting to meet this amazing woman.

This book is so well written . Kate obviously has done extensive research on the subject, but writes from first hand experience the realities of interacting and helping a loved one, who is challenged with bipolar disorder.This book is a true guide to how we can help others overcome this disease. It also gives insight into someones behaviors, who has not yet been diagnosed.EXCELLENT BOOK. A MUST READ.

Kate McLaughlin very honestly relates the story of a courageous and loving family as they face bipolar disease.
The author points out the limited services available to this population, even those with generous resources to pay for care. I hope this book and increased understanding of mental illness will lead to availability of more care for the mentally ill, those with and without resources to pay for care.
This book is extremely well written describing the facts of bipolar disorder as well as the emotional toll this disease takes on families.
I highly recommend it.

This book, Mommy I'm Still in Here, tracks the struggle of a very real family who encounters bipolar disorder in not one but two of their children. The story is told with the emotion only a person who has gone through this can produce. Through tears and torment author Kate McLaughlin takes us through the most difficult days to come out with a sense of hope at the end. She gives information and sheds truth on the myths of mental illness. Well written and easy to follow; you won't want to put it down.