Week 8 initial post for diagnosis of bipolar in children.
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Making a definitive diagnosis of bipolar disorder in children can be a challenge given that there are other conditions that share some of the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder can however be diagnosed in children, it can cause mood swings, from the highs of hyperactivity or euphoria (mania) to the lows when they experience prolong periods of depression (National institute of Mental Health).
Emotional issues, unruly behaviors in the most instances are considered part of human growth and development and in most cases do not warrant an evaluation and treatment. Children will periodically have episodic rough times in which they may feel depressed, irritable , angry hyperactive and rebellious against their parents, care givers or guardians, however when these symptoms last for more that seven days along with three or more symptoms such as irritability, self- esteem issues, sleep problems, racing thoughts, flight of ideas, increased activity, grandiosity and suicidal thoughts or behaviors in older children they may be suffering from bipolar disorder which needs to be evaluated, diagnosed and treated (Conner, 2012).
Signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder in children and teenager
Some of the signs that are frequently experience in children with Bipolar disorder include
Hyperactive mood swings that are different from the child or teenager mood swing.
Hyperactive impulsive, aggressive or social inappropriate behavior
Risky and reckless behaviors that are out of the child or teenage character, in case of older teenagers
Casual sex with different partners, drug use such as marijuana or alcohol. Spending sprees.
Insomnia or decreased need for the child or teenage sleep pattern
Depressive mood, irritability, most of the day during depressed episodes (Conner, 2012)
Grandiose and over- rated view of the child or teenager capability.
Suicidal thoughts or behaviors in older children.
Diagnosing bipolar disorder in children can be a gigantic challenge given that the symptoms overlap with other mental afflictions such as attention deficit /hyperactive disorder, oppositional defiant behavior, conduct disorder and anxiety disorder, making diagnosis difficult. When a child experiences serious mood swings, depression or behavior problems constantly for over one week, it is prudent to seek consult with a mental health provider who works with children and teenagers (Casgrove et al, 2013).
Mood swings and behavior problems that are caused by bipolar disorder can lead to major difficulties in life. Early assessment, diagnosis and treatment of bipolar disorder in children can lead to a better treatment outcome, thereby preventing serious consequences and decreasing the impact of mental health problems on the child or teenager in the future. it is imperative to diagnose bipolar disorder early and initiate treatment.
References
Bipolar disorder in children and teens. National institute of Mental health. http;//www.nimh.gov/health
/publications/bipolar-disorder-in children-and adolescents/index shtml
Accessed oct. 15,2019.
Connor DF, et al, (2012) Characteristics of children with Juvenile bipolar disorder or disruptive behaviors
And negative mood. Can they be distinguished in clinical setting? Annals of clinical psychiatry,24:261
Cosgrove VE,et al (2013). Bipolar disorder in pediatric populations. Epidemiology and management.
Pediatric Drugs,15-83.
