PajMon Information Blog

Affecting millions of people in the United States alone is a serious mood disorder known as bipolar. Though there most people think of bipolar as an adult only disorder, it is not only adults that struggle with it. In some cases, even before puberty in some cases, children would develop bipolar disorder symptoms and children with this disorder can start exhibiting symptoms as early as the age of seven. Even though the disease carries the same name, bipolar symptoms in children is different. Bipolar disorder children have totally different experiences to adults with the disorder.

A mood disorder characterized by changes in mood from depression to manic episodes, Bipolar disorder is also called a manic depression illness. Bipolar has three main episodes called depression; mania and mixed episodes. There are times that are considered “normal” and other length of time for the different episodes which varies greatly depending on each individual. The other type is called a “mixed” episode which the person can simultaneously experience symptoms of depression and mania.

What Are Bipolar Symptoms In Children?

Overwhelming sadness, feeling that nothing goes right, low self esteem, fatigue, and changes in appetite and feelings of hopelessness are signs of bipolar depression. People may even have feelings or thoughts of suicide which is a clear sign of depression which is particularly bad.

Manic episode symptoms include restlessness and fidgeting, hyperactivity, insomnia, distractibility, and difficulty concentrating. Many people who are experiencing a manic episode may have rapid or disjointed speech, or even become aggressive and angry.

Children experience many other symptoms in addition to many of the common symptoms associated with or not with depressive and manic episodes. Symptoms of bipolar in children may include, bed wetting (especially in boys), temper tantrums, motor or vocal tics, separation anxiety and night terrors.

One of the challenges with bipolar disorder in children is that the symptoms can change as the child grows. Because of this, there’s no standard for bipolar disorder symptoms in children. Not only does this make it more difficult to diagnose children, but it can make it more difficult to maintain quality treatment.

How Bipolar Disorder In Children Is Treated

As with adults who have bipolar disorder, bipolar symptoms in children are usually treated with a combination of medication and psychotherapy. In children, however, it’s important to have a strong support system to keep an eye on the child. As a child with bipolar disorder grows, the disease can change, and with a strong support system, it’s easier to make sure the child is getting the treatment needed to deal with the bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder is a serious illness, and can be even more serious when it affects children. In addition to the normal stresses of growing up, bipolar disorder children have to deal with the debilitating symptoms of bipolar disorder. It can be confusing and overwhelming.

Information is important when dealing with bipolar disorder in children. It is vital that you understand bipolar as this will help you help your child with this illness.

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