Many people have heard about bipolar disorder or as it is sometimes referred maniac depression. However, many may not be aware that this is a disease that can occur in childhood.  Childhood bipolar disorder can be seen in children as young as infants, or it can begin in adolescences.

Symptoms of Childhood Bipolar Disorder

There is a difference between the symptoms experience by adults and children with bipolar disorder. Many adults go through weeks of phases with this disorder.  They may appear very energized and seem to be in a mania.  Then they will have weeks of extreme lows where they are unable to function.

 Childhood bipolar disorder can appear to be a combination of mania and depression that can occur during the same time.  There are also periods of normal emotions in between.  Childhood bipolar disorder symptoms can include destructive rages, extreme emotions, hyperactivity, sleeping too little, or sleeping too much, impulsive behaviors and there are more symptoms.

Childhood bipolar disorder needs to be identified and treatment should begin as soon as possible.  In order to get childhood bipolar disorder properly diagnosed it is important to keep a record of behaviors to show a physician and then a psychiatrist.  By keeping tack of when and what behaviors present themselves, a parent can actively monitor if a child had bipolar disorder or maybe another disorder such as ADHD.

Treatment for Childhood Bipolar Disorder

Since bipolar disorder is a chronic condition, treatment can change throughout a person’s lifetime.  Most often, mood altering medications will be subscribed in order to get the child stabilized emotionally.  These medications will continue to be part of a child’s lifetime, and as new medications are found can change.  There is no cure for bipolar disorder, so it is imperative to learn what can make the symptoms better.

The next step in treating childhood bipolar disorder is to see a psychotherapist to help a child learn how to control their emotions.  This can be a very difficult process for a child and may take many sessions to begin to see results.  In these sessions children learn relaxation techniques, learn how to let go of stress, discovering situations which may cause a child stress and how to avoid or cope with these situations.  Psychotherapy is an important part of treating childhood bipolar disorder.

Childhood bipolar disorder can feel overwhelming to both a child and their parents.  It is critical to begin searching for the right support and treatment for your child.  Parents too may find that they benefit from seeing a psychotherapist for ideas on ways to cope with the stress that this disorder has on a family.  Don’t be afraid to look for help, for yourself or your child.

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