I have a long story that I will make as short as possible! I have a now 6 year old daughter who is hospitalized for agression towards me, my husband and especially her 2 little sisters. She is such a bright child and she does well with her schoolwork. Only thing is, "socially " she is no butterfly. She does not get along with her peers and has no friends as they all say they are scared of her. She was hospitalized on the 14th after a week of escalating violent behaviors, threatening both herself and all of us. She turned 6 on the 14th. Yes you read that right, she was hospitalized on her birthday. I have cried many tears and I am torn at both ends. I visit every evening for the hour they give us and she seems happy and that takes a little weight off my shoulders.

She entered the hospital on DEPEKOTE she had been taking it for approximately one month at time of admittance to the hospital. They asked me to sign a release form giving my permission to start her onRisperdal . I have looked up the drug and I am so uncomfortable with it. I am also very uncomfortable with the "DEPEKOTE" They also said they may have to give her COGENTIN as they said the Risperdal may cause some muscle stiffness. All this makes me so uncomfortable. I just dont want my baby taking all these meds and I feel like there has to be another way to get her through this.

She has been "unoficially " diagnosed with Bi-polar disorder. I realize that the medicine may benefit her but I have read some scary things online and frankly I'm worried sick. Has anyone had experiences with these meds positive or negative? On an individual or combined basis?? Thanks in advance for any advice and encouragement.:( http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2003-7/286973/apr16102.jpg