How to talk to my son about his bipolar dad

[bealos]

Hi...

My son is nearly 8 and his dad (my ex partner) was diagnosed as bipolar a few years ago. We have a good relationship and ds sees his dad often.

I don't know the ins and outs of the treatment he is on for being bipolar, only that recently he has had to come off his meds, due to worry that they might be causing, or could lead to heart problems. I'm not sure if he's started a new medication programme.

He has periods (often) when he is exhausted and finds caring for his son difficult. I find it hard to describe to my son what's going on but want to talk to him as he's upset when he can't see his dad. What words should I use? Is there any help out there I could get or read to help me figure this out?

Thanks all

I told my ds age 7 that mummies brain sometimes tricks her and makes her feel sad when she isn't. So mummy has to take tablets to stop her brain from tricking her but they don't always work.