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Bipolar Children
Bipolar children are usually aged 6 and above [teenage years], and they also experience extreme mood swings during a bipolar episode. Bipolar children may exhibit mania and depression- together with the other bipolar symptoms - numerous times within a day.
It was thought that bipolar children have the same mood swings as adults with the same condition. But there have been studies of bipolar children which have shown different symptoms compared to that of adult patients; thus, different treatments were established specifically for children with this condition.
The cause of bipolar disorder in children is also unknown. As with adults, bipolar episodes can be attributed to chemical imbalances in the brain that may trigger mood swings in children.
Genetics or heredity is another theory that scientists have been trying to look into. If only there is a gene or a set of genes that cause bipolar symptoms that they can pinpoint, it will be easier for psychologists to identify and treat the condition. But studies show that there is a huge possibility for a child to develop bipolar disorder if a close family member has it.
People who do not know about this condition might think of it as a result of bad parenting or bad influences from external factors. But this misconception can be ruled out especially if there are no concrete evidences.
Environmental influences are still being studied if there are certain factors that can trigger symptoms in bipolar children.
Symptoms of bipolar disorder in children
Mania or depression periods are not as obvious in children and teenagers. Bipolar children have extreme mania and depression episodes that can switch continuously during the day. Normal or neutral moods can also occur in between extreme mood swings. Some bipolar children may exhibit both symptoms at any one time during the day.
*Mania episodes in bipolar children may exhibit the following behaviors/moods:
irritability
extreme temper tantrums
have the urge to touch their genitals, use sexual language and approach other people in a sexual manner
not needing sleep and may go out late at night to look for activities or thins to do
*Depression episodes in bipolar children may exhibit the following behaviors/moods:
feeling of emptiness, sadness, boredom or loneliness
may complain of muscle pains, headaches, fatigue or stomachaches
feeling of rejection and criticism
may frequently spend time alone
Diagnosing bipolar children and teenagers
Diagnosis of bipolar children and teens can be difficult because the symptoms are quite similar to other conditions like ADHD, conduct problems, and substance or alcohol abuse. These conditions may lead or exist together with bipolar disorder.
If your child is referred to a psychiatrist, a routine check-up and blood tests may be included to rule out possible health conditions that may trigger certain bipolar symptoms.
The psychiatrist may conduct a Q and A with your child to gather information from the series of questions. Written tests may also be given to you and your child to determine the severity of his/her mania and depression.
Early diagnosis is essential for the child to help uncover his/her other possible problems. Sometimes, problems at school and at home may cause the triggering effect on a bipolar child. As always, it is better to treat the condition earlier to prevent severe problems in the long run.
If you have a bipolar child, make sure you look for the signs and symptoms. There are patients who suffer severe bipolar disorder that they are always on the verge of killing themselves. Suicidal tendencies are high with people who have bipolar disorder.
Treatment for bipolar children
Bipolar disorder can be treated with prescription medications and therapy. Bipolar children may need more extensive treatments that may also include family counseling as well.
Cognitive behavior therapy, interpersonal therapy and problem solving techniques may be used as treatment for bipolar children with emphasis on modifying the behavior and thinking of the child/teen.
Medicines may also be given to alleviate the attacks of extreme negative behaviors. Prescription drugs are usually low in dosages and parents should monitor if their child or teen is taking the medications regularly.
Alternative means such as ECT [electroconvulsive therapy] and giving omega-3 fatty acids are being looked into for their effectivity and benefits.
ECT is a process of applying short electrical stimulation to the patient's brain via electrodes attached to the head. Short seizure is produced by ECT which is thought to balance the chemicals in the brain.
Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oils have proven health benefits. However, its effect on bipolar disorder is/are being investigated and researchers are looking further to identify the pros and cons of this alternative treatment.
It takes patience and understanding when dealing with a bipolar child. The important thing to do is to have the child diagnosed if there are characteristic bipolar symptoms that he/she is exhibiting.
