What if my teen keeps trying to run away?
Your teen may have a strong tendency to run away, especially when in an agitated mixed state in which he is feeling both mania and depression. This state pushes him strongly to “do” something and many times that something is to run. He may feel an extreme inner restlessness that doesn’t seem to abate. These feelings can be so strong that he may feel he will die if he doesn’t leave. If your teen has shown this tendency and you find yourself worried sick and chasing him down constantly, then consider developing a “safe run” spot. This is an agreed upon safe destination where he can go. It may not be that he wants to stay away; he may just need to get away or feel as though he is running. If he doesn’t have a “safe run” spot, he could end up anywhere. This leaves you at home, terrified, wondering if he’ll walk through the door or if he is in danger.
Decide together on a “safe run” destination. It could be a friend’s house or a relative’s house, but wherever the spot is, he should be able to get there safely on-well lit, secure roads. Make sure that the spot is agreed upon by all parties and that those living there will provide a safe atmosphere. Let your teen know that if he goes missing that you will give him a reasonable specified amount of time to either be home or be at his “safe run” spot. Make it clear that if he doesn’t turn up there within this amount of time, you will call the police and report him as a missing person. Police may consider an unstable teen with bipolar disorder as a medium or high risk missing person, since the teen needs to take medication and may be a risk to himself.
Excerpt from The Childhood Bipolar Disorder Answer Book published by Sourcebooks, Inc.
Copyright 2008 by Tracy Anglada and Sheryl Hakala All Rights Reserved