Bipolar Disorder in children can be very difficult to diagnose because it mimics (or exists with) other disorders (such as depression, ADHD, and anxiety).  It is a brain disorder in which mood swings shift suddenly from very happy to very sad or irritable. These are not the same as normal feelings moving from happy to sad. These mood changes are known as "episodes" and there are three basic kinds: manic, depressive, and mixed. Mixed episodes include both manic and depressive symptoms.  Manic episodes are characterized with being overly silly or happy yet with a short temper and irritability.  Depressive symptoms include sadness, loss of interest in activities, and a feeling of worthlessness.  Sleep is disrupted:  less sleep yet not tired during mania, and sleeping more and still tired during depression. 

For more information on Bipolar Disorder in Children and Teens, clic here. 

For more information on Bipolar Disorder in Adults, click here. 

Symptoms of Manic Episodes

A diagnosis for a manic episode includes either an elevated or an irritable mood lasting at least a week plus three or more of the following symptoms (symptoms that last less time might qualify for atypical mania):

·         Talking too fast or too much

·         Risky or impulsive behavior, like inappropriate sex talk or behavior or excessive spending sprees

·         Needing little sleep

·         Being easily distracted (attention shifts between many topics in just a few minutes)

·         Having an inflated feeling of power, greatness, or importance

·         Intense focus on goal-directed activity

·         Racing thoughts

Symptoms of Depressive Episodes

A diagnosis for a major depressive episode requires having a depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure in activities a person used to enjoy. In addition, four of the following symptoms must also be present nearly every day for at least two weeks:

·         Low energy or fatigue

·         Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism

·         Difficulty concentrating

·         Irritability, restlessness, or being slowed down

·         Feeling worthless or guilty

·         Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much

·         Significant weight change

·         Thoughts about suicide or dying

Compared to adults, young people with Bipolar Disorder tend to have more mixed episodes, and are more prone to very rapid changes between high (manic) and low (depressive) moods.

Migraine headaches

Binging

Self-mutilating behaviors

Cruelty to animals