Symptoms of Bipolar in Children
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.
What is Different with Children Bipolar?
Children cannot understand the symptoms they’re experiencing and to voice their feelings, making it very difficult to diagnose children with bipolar.
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.
Since bipolar in children is more complicated than bipolar in adults, it’s even more 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.
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.
Symptoms of depressive episodes include increased need for sleep, fatigue and lethargy, feelings of hopelessness, lack of interest in activities and relationships, and suicidal thoughts. Children who are experiencing a depressive episode may also experience fascination with gory or morbid topics, low self-esteem, and oversensitivity or exaggerated emotional responses.
Symptoms of manic episodes include a decreased need for sleep, rapid speech, racing thoughts, impulsive behavior, distractibility, and, in some cases, aggressive behavior. These symptoms are all common in children, as well, and children suffering from a manic episode may also have temper tantrums, extreme irritability, “silly” behavior, and motor or vocal tics.
Hypomania is similar to mania, but less severe. For many, hypomania seems like the person is just in a good mood, particularly when compared to a depressive episode. A mixed state episode occurs when symptoms of depression and mania are present at the same time.
Where Can I Get More Information?
As well as ensuring that treatment is effective and helping your child manage his/her illness, first you must understand bipolar in children and its symptoms. Your child can be on the way to living a healthy and happy life if you know what to look for.
