Pediatric Bipolar Disease

Pediatric bipolar disease is a mood disorder characterized by extreme "highs" and extreme "lows" in thinking, feelings and behaviors. Pediatric bipolar disease begins during childhood.

Identification

• Pediatric bipolar disease can be difficult to diagnose in children and often occurs in conjunction with or appears similar to other disorders. Bipolar disorder in children is often misdiagnosed as ADHD, depression or anxiety.

Features

• Children with bipolar disorder experience intense periods of "highs" or mania and intense "lows" or depression. During periods of mania, children may be extremely active, have racing thoughts, do risky activities and have trouble sleeping and focusing. During the depressed state, children may feel very sad, experience a lot of aches and pains, sleep a lot and have feelings of worthlessness and guilt.

Considerations

• According to the National Institute of Mental Health, factors that may increase the likelihood of pediatric bipolar disorder, or manic depression, include heredity, abnormal brain structure and anxiety disorders.

Prevention/Solution

• The most effective treatment for pediatric bipolar disorder usually includes a combination of therapy and mood stabilizing medication.

Warning

• Children with bipolar disorder may become suicidal during depressed states, and it is extremely important to monitor them closely and seek professional help immediately if the child talks about death or suicide.