Definition
Bipolarity in children is a rare diagnosis and is often used when nothing else will fit. There is a lot of debate if there is a difference between adult bipolarity and childhood bipolarity – often centering on how quickly/often moods shift.
It presents in mood episodes:
- Symptoms of Mania:
- Increased physical and mental activity and energy
- Heightened mood, exaggerated optimism, and self-confidence
- Excessive irritability, aggressive behavior
- Decreased sleep without experiencing fatigue
- Reckless behavior
- Racing speech, thoughts, and free ranging implausible ideas
- Symptoms of Depression:
- Prolonged sadness or unexplained crying spells
- Anger, agitation, worry, agitation
- Significant changes in appetite and sleep patterns
- Pessimism, loss of energy, persistent lethargy
- Feelings of guilt and worthlessness
- Indecisiveness and inattention
- Recurring thoughts of death
Medication, therapy, and careful monitoring are essential for supporting the bipolar child.
Blogs, Websites, Journal Articles
Early Intervention in Bipolar Disorder (Vieta)
Current research in child and adolescent bipolar disorder
Developmental pathways to bipolarity: are juvenile-onset depressions pre-bipolar?
Books for Adults and Children
The Bipolar Child: The Definitive and Reassuring Guide to Childhood’s Most Misunderstood Disorder, Third Edition (Papolos) – this is the gold standard in this area
What Works for Bipolar Kids: Help and Hope for Parents (Pavuluri)
Brandon and the Bipolar Bear: A Story for Children with Bipolar Disorder (Anglada)
Raising Sadie: my bipolar child
Her daughter was diagnosed at the age of five. In this video, Dorothy describes what it’s like raising a child with bipolar disorder.
Pediatric Bipolar Disorder
Moira Rynn, MD, director of the Columbia University Pediatric Anxiety and Mood Research Clinic, discusses the signs and symptoms of Pediatric Bipolar Disorder.