Bipolar disorder can occur in children and teens. Unlike adults, children and teens tend to have very rapid mood swings (rapid cycling) between manic and depressive episodes many times throughout the day. The episode of mania is usually a period of extreme irritability and destructive tantrums rather than excessive happiness.
Diagnosis of children with bipolar disorder
The diagnosis of bipolar disorder in children and teens tend to be complicated. Usually it is difficult to draw a detailed diagnosis of bipolar disorder in children and teens. Knowledge of family medical history can be extremely useful in establishing the correct diagnosis. Bipolar disorder is more likely to affect the children with a parent or sibling with bipolar disorder. When a parent suffers from bipolar disorder, it is estimated that the risk of each child amounts to between 15 and 30 percent.
Symptoms of bipolar disorder in children
The symptoms of bipolar disorder in children and teens may be confused initially with normal emotions or behaviors. But unlike normal mood swings, bipolar disorder significantly affects functional ability in school and relationships with peers and family. Many children with disabilities simultaneous bipolar disorder and low self-esteem.
Depression in children with bipolar disorder is characterized by numerous physical complaints, frequent absences from school or poor academic performance, home escape attempts, irritability, complaining, unexplained crying, poor communication and excessive sensitivity to rejection or failure. In young people with bipolar disorder, symptoms are mixed together. By contrast, the late teens experience more adult-type episodes that often begin with a manic episode and relatively stable periods between episodes.
It is necessary to rule out other causes that might explain the symptoms of bipolar disorder. In children, the disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other mental illnesses may mask or sometimes occur simultaneously with bipolar disorder. But that does not mean that all children with ADHD will develop bipolar disorder. However, a child with ADHD who is more likely to develop the bipolar disease.
Bipolar disorder treatment children
Right now, there is no cure for bipolar disorder. Doctors often treat children who have the illness in a similar way they treat adults. Treatment can help control symptoms.
1. Medication. Different types of medication can help. Children react to medications differently. Some children may need more than one type of medication because their symptoms are so complex. Sometimes you have to try different drugs to see which is best for them. Do not give your child medication without a doctor for help. Stopping medication abruptly can be dangerous, and it can make bipolar symptoms worse.
2. Therapy. Different types of psychotherapy, or “talk” therapy can help children with bipolar disorder. Therapy can help children to change their behavior and manage their practices. It can also help young people get along better with family and friends. Sometimes therapy includes family members.
