Children and Bipolar Symptoms
You probably think of adults, when you think of bipolar disorder, also known as a manic depressive illness. It is possible to find bipolar in children but most of the time; symptoms of bipolar don’t begin to show until early adulthood. It is important for family and friends to know all they can and be a strong support system for children, because symptoms of bipolar disorder can be frustrating and frightening than adults.
What is Different with Children Bipolar?
Bipolar in children can be more difficult to diagnose since children may not understand the symptoms they’re experiencing, or how to voice how they’re feeling.
Children are already going through many emotional and physical changes, in addition, symptoms are changing or whether treatments are working and how the child is doing.
Very important to have a strong support system in family and friends who can closely monitor the child and help keep communication between the child and the care giver open. Bipolar in children is more complicated than bipolar in adults.
What are Bipolar Symptoms?
Bipolar disorder is marked by severe mood swings. Generally, patients experience depressive episodes and manic episodes. There are cases, though, in which patients can also experience hypomanic episodes or mixed state episodes. Children experience these episodes, as well, but they may react to them differently, depending on their ages.
Children who are in a depressive mode have an increased need for sleep, lack of interest in activities and relationships; have suicidal thoughts, always tired, lethargy and feelings of hopelessness. They are also oversensitive or exaggerated emotional responses fascination with gory or morbid topics and have very low self-esteem.
Symptoms of manic episodes include a decreased need for sleep, rapid speech, racing thoughts, impulsive behavior, distractibility, and, in some cases, aggressive behavior. These symptoms are all common in children, as well, and children suffering from a manic episode may also have temper tantrums, extreme irritability, “silly” behavior, and motor or vocal tics.
Hypomania is similar to mania, but less severe. For many, hypomania seems like the person is just in a good mood, particularly when compared to a depressive episode. A mixed state episode occurs when symptoms of depression and mania are present at the same time.
Where Can I Get More Information?
As well as ensuring that treatment is effective and helping your child manage his/her illness, first you must understand bipolar in children and its symptoms. Your child can be on the way to living a healthy and happy life if you know what to look for.
Tags: bipolar disorder, children bipolar disorder, hypomania