Introduction
Bipolar disorder is one of the most common psychiatric disorders in children, yet it often goes undiagnosed. Bipolar disorder in children is characterized by extreme mood swings between depression and mania and can cause serious disruptions in a child’s life. This article will provide a checklist of symptoms of bipolar disorder in children and discuss the history, diagnosis, and treatment of this disorder.
Definition
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive disorder, is a mental illness that causes extreme changes in a person’s mood, energy, and ability to function. It is characterized by periods of mania, when a person is abnormally high in energy and activity, and periods of depression, when a person is abnormally low in energy and activity.
History
Bipolar disorder was first described in the late 19th century. However, it was not until the 1970s that the diagnosis became more widespread. Since then, research has shown that bipolar disorder is more common in children than previously thought.
Checklist of Symptoms
• Excessive mood swings, often between depression and mania
• Prolonged periods of irritability, sadness, or anxiety
• Difficulty concentrating or paying attention
• Impulsive or reckless behavior
• Rapid or pressured speech
• Grandiose ideas or delusions
• Increased energy or hyperactivity
• Difficulty sleeping
• Poor self-esteem
• Poor school performance
Diagnosis
Diagnosing bipolar disorder in children can be difficult, as the symptoms of the disorder can overlap with other conditions, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, or anxiety. In order to diagnose bipolar disorder, a doctor will take a complete medical history, conduct a physical exam, and order laboratory tests to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms. If the doctor suspects bipolar disorder, a referral to a psychiatrist or psychologist may be recommended.
Treatment
Bipolar disorder is a chronic condition, and the goal of treatment is to help the child manage their symptoms and lead a healthy, productive life. Treatment for bipolar disorder commonly includes medication to stabilize mood, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and family therapy. Additionally, lifestyle changes, such as getting regular exercise and regular sleep, can also help manage bipolar disorder symptoms.
Conclusion
Bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness that can have a significant impact on a child’s life, so it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of the disorder. The above checklist of symptoms can help parents and healthcare providers identify bipolar disorder in children and ensure they receive the appropriate treatment.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
Birmaher, B., Axelson, D., & Strober, M. (2006). Childhood and adolescent bipolar disorder: A review of the past 10 years. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 45(1), 8–25. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.chi.0000191245.91223.38
Geller, B., Luby, J., & Wagner, K. D. (2006). Bipolar disorder in childhood and adolescence. In J. Werry & J. McClellan (Eds.), Child and adolescent psychiatry: A comprehensive textbook (3rd ed., pp. 672–698). Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
Hazell, P. (2004). Bipolar disorder in children and adolescents. Medical Journal of Australia, 180(11/12), S107–S111.
Miklowitz, D. J., & Scott, J. (2009). Bipolar disorder in children and adolescents. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, 5, 267–298. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.clinpsy.032408.153544