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Pediatric Bipolar Treatment

Bipolar disorder is a mental illness characterized by severe mood swings between depression and over-elation known as mania. Children with bipolar most often exhibit anger, aggression, impulsivity and sleep disorders, according to the book "Parenting a Bipolar Child" authored by Gianni L. Faedda, MD and Nancy B. Austin, Psy.D.

  1. Time Frame

    • Depending on the severity of the child's bipolar symptoms, it can take up to 18 months to stabilize her mental health condition.

    Sleep and Exercise

    • Whether medication is used, parents can help treat bipolar children by setting and enforcing regular times for sleep and exercise. This naturally improves mood regulation and creates boundaries.

    Therapy

    • Several kinds of therapy can be used in pediatric bipolar treatment. Individual counseling, group therapy and family sessions have all proven helpful in bipolar children.

    Medication

    • Mood stabilizers such as lithium and antipsychotics like Seroquel can help even out a bipolar child's moods and prevent potentially destructive behaviors such as aggression.

    Considerations

    • All medications have side effects and some such as lithium require regular blood monitoring to ensure there is not toxicity to the organs. Antidepressants and stimulants are not recommended for pediatric bipolar treatment due to their potential to worsen mood swings.

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