My name is Martha and I have a five-year old child with early onset bipolar disorder among other problems. I also have a three-year old baby girl with no problems.

Recently, my sister, turned me into CPS because she does not agree with my treatment plan for my bipolar daughter. At this point, CPS "says" they will just verify the medical verification I have given and get back to me in two weeks. However, I would like to be prepared.

I know they will question me about her medications and the doses we give. However, my husband and I have decided to pursue natural alternatives such as: Omega 3, B vitamins, counseling, and other things. We feel that our daughter is too young to be over-medicated and feel the side affects related to these drugs are just too much of a risk. If at any time, I thought her problems were out of my control and warranted medications, I would not hesitate to use them. However, I have taken steps to make her safe and happy with natural methods.

Isn't this my decision as her parent? She is not suffering any harmful side affects from our decision and on most days is happy and safe at our home. Are there any others with special-needs children who have faced this? Are there any laws or legal statues concerning this issue?

Thank you for your time and consideration.

~Martha

Labels: bipolar, parental rights, special needs, treatment