How to Raise Bipolar Children

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, shows in extreme mood swings. Children with bipolar disorder don't tend to experience the highs in episodes of mania, but their manic behavior usually manifests itself in outbursts of anger, followed by an episode of depression. This happens because their brain produces too much or too little of certain chemicals, which has a noticeable effect not only on their mood, but also their activity levels.There is no cure for this condition and dealing with it is only a matter of curving the symptoms.

Instructions

• 1

  Don't force the child. Bipolar children sometimes have problems with concentration. If your child looses focus, you shouldn't pressure her to finish but rather take a 10-minute break and try again later. Reward the child if they can stay focused for even the shortest amount of time.

• 2

  Keep your child on a schedule. Insomnia is common with manic depressive children and, for this reason, they should be kept on a tight schedule at all times. It also helps if there is a bedtime ritual created around going to sleep, like a bath and a bedtime story before you turn the lights out. Don't allow your child to leave his room after bedtime and be strict with these rules.

• 3

  Be alert. Episodes of depression can cause thoughts or even attempts of suicide. Listen to your child if she starts expressing gloomy outlooks on the world and also try to keep an eye out for signs of changed behavior, retrieving to solitude or crying. Talk to your child and don't leave her alone if she gives you a reason to worry.

• 4

  Provide your child with a healthy diet. Sugar intake with bipolar children should be kept to a minimum and caffeine strictly prohibited as they both cause a quick energy rise followed by a big drop in energy levels. Bipolar children must avoid any type of stimulants.

• 5

  Get help. Doctors and psychiatrists are a necessary part of any bipolar child's life, as you will probably need to medicate your child to keep his mood on a steady level. It also will be helpful if you hire a nanny for the child to be around with when you're not there. Bipolar children often suffer from separation anxiety and it might help if the child learns to trust outside people at an early age.