Bipolar in Children and its Symptoms
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.
Is Bipolar in Children Different and How?
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.
It can be difficult to monitor how your child is doing, because symptoms are changing, if treatments are working, besides children going through many emotional and physical changes, including mood swings.
Very important to have a strong support system in family and friends who can closely monitor the child and help keep communication between the child and the care giver open. Bipolar in children is more complicated than bipolar in adults.
What are Bipolar Symptoms?
Marked by severe mood swings, bipolar disorder patients experience depressive and manic episodes. Experiencing hypomanic or mixed state episodes patients can also experience other illness not related to bipolar but because of their age react to them differently.
Children who are in a depressive mode have an increased need for sleep, lack of interest in activities and relationships; have suicidal thoughts, always tired, lethargy and feelings of hopelessness. They are also oversensitive or exaggerated emotional responses fascination with gory or morbid topics and have very low self-esteem.
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.
Mania is nearly as similar to hypomania. When compared to a depressive episode, hypomania is when the person seems to be just in a good mood. When mania and depression are present at the same time it is called a mixed state episode.
Where Can I Get More Information?
Key in helping your child manage your child’s illness, and ensuring treatment is effective, you must first understand bipolar in children and its symptoms. You can be a much stronger support, live a healthy, happy life, if you know what to look for in your child.
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