Symptoms of Bipolar in Children

« « Do You Have Some Concept As Regards What is Depression? | Signs and Symptoms of Panic Attacks » »

Thursday, June 4th, 2009 Subscribe To Our Feed

When you think of bipolar disorder, also known as manic depressive illness, you probably think of adults. And while it is true that, most of the time, symptoms of bipolar don’t begin to show until early adulthood, it is possible to find bipolar in children, as well. For children, symptoms of bipolar disorder can be even more frustrating and frightening than for adults, which is why it’s important for family and friends to know all they can and be a strong support system.

How is Bipolar in Children Different?

Unable to voice what they’re feeling, bipolar in children is more difficult to diagnose since children cannot understand the symptoms they’re going through.

In addition, since children are already going through many emotional and physical changes, including mood swings, it may be difficult to monitor how your child is doing, how symptoms are changing, or whether treatments are working.

Families and friends can be a support system, keeping a close monitor on the child and also help keep communication between the child and the care giver open. The bottom line is bipolar in adults is easier to diagnose than children.

What are Bipolar Symptoms?

Bipolar disorder is marked by severe mood swings. Generally, patients experience depressive episodes and manic episodes. There are cases, though, in which patients can also experience hypomanic episodes or mixed state episodes. Children experience these episodes, as well, but they may react to them differently, depending on their ages.

Depressive episodes include increased need for sleep, suicidal thoughts, fatigue, lethargy, feelings of hopelessness, lack of interest in activities and relationships. Oversensitivity, exaggerated emotional responses, fascination with gory or morbid topics, low self-esteem are some other depressive episode experienced by children.

Children suffering from a manic episode have temper tantrums, extreme irritability, “silly” behaviors, and motor or vocal tics. Manic episodes include a decreased need for sleep, rapid speech, racing thoughts, impulsive behaviors, distractibility, and, in some cases, aggressive behaviors.

Less severe to mania, Hypomania is when the person is in a good mood, compared to depressive episode of bipolar. When symptoms of depression and mania are present at the same time it is called a mixed state episode.

More Information - Where?

Understanding bipolar in children and the symptoms of bipolar disorder are key in helping your child manage his or her illness, as well as ensuring that treatment is effective. If you know what to look for in your child, you can be a much stronger support, and your child will be on the way to living a healthy, happy life.

Share and Enjoy: These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.