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CHILDHOOD/ADOLESCENT BIPOLAR DISORDER

Due to the lack of studies, it is unknown how many children suffer from Bipolar Disorder. It is believed that many children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) have Early-Onset Bipolar Disorder. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry estimates that up to one-third of the 3.4 million children and adolescents in the U.S. with depression may be experiencing the early onset of Bipolar Disorder. Bipolar Disorder looks different in children than in adults. Children generally have a continuous mood disturbance that is a mix of mania and depression, which causes chronic irritability and few defined periods of wellness between episodes. Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder in children may include an expansive or irritable mood, depression, rapidly changing moods, rages, separation anxiety, defiance of authority, agitation, distractibility, hyperactivity, sleeping too much or not enough, bed wetting and night terrors, strong and frequent cravings, excessive participation in multiple activities, impaired judgment, dare-devil behavior, inappropriate sexual behavior, delusions and hallucinations, and a grandiose belief in abilities. Adolescents with Bipolar I Disorder experience alternating episodes of severe and sometimes psychotic mania and depression, with periods of relative or complete wellness between episodes. Symptoms of mania include elevated or irritable mood, decreased need for sleep, talkative and rapid speech, grandiose delusions, excessive involvement in risky activities, increase in mental and physical activity, poor judgment, and hallucinations in severe cases. Symptoms of depression include pervasive sadness and crying, sleeping too much or unable to sleep, agitation and irritability, withdraw from activities, drop in grades, loss of concentration, thoughts of suicide, lack of energy, and significant change in appetite. Adolescents with Bipolar II Disorder experience episodes of hypomania between periods of depression. Hypomania is a noticeably elevated or irritable mood with increased mental and physical energy, and can be a time of great creativity. A high percentage of adolescents with untreated Bipolar Disorder abuse alcohol and substances. Adolescents who experience a relatively sudden onset of symptoms are believed to have a higher risk of developing an addiction to drugs or alcohol. It is essential to treat the Bipolar Disorder and substance abuse at the same time if addiction develops. The early treatment of childhood and adolescent Bipolar Disorder is essential. A good treatment plan includes medication, individual and family counseling, monitoring symptoms closely, education about the illness, reducing stress, regulating sleep and exercise, good nutrition, and participating in a support network. With appropriate treatment and support, many children and adolescents with Bipolar Disorder achieve a significant reduction of severity, frequency, and duration of episodes.

 

 

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