"Mood swings are part of most any bipolar disorder, and this is one of the easiest symptoms for parents to pick up on."
(MANI PAVULURI, MD)
Q: What symptoms signal that my child may have bipolar depression?
A: First, look for severe mood swings. Then determine, through close observation, if the child is behaving in a manner that is out of character—switching from being depressed or normal to very excitable, displaying extreme irritation and not requiring sleep, exhibiting abnormally high energy. Bipolar disorder is a mood disturbance characterized by cycling episodes of mania and depression that are peppered with irritability and aggression, decreased need for sleep, constant talking, and even hypersexuality. So when you suspect that, based on these symptoms, something serious is going on, you must take your child to a psychiatrist or psychologist. In the general population, between 1% to 3% of children suffer from bipolar disorder.
Q: How do you find a qualified expert?
A: If someone is working as a mental health expert with children, he should be qualified to diagnose and treat pediatric bipolar disorder. But of course there are people who are not up-to-date on this, so as a parent you should ask: Do you generally see bipolar children in your practice? If you are not satisfied with your child's progress with a particular doctor, then you should get a second opinion.
Q: Are severe mood swings always associated with bipolar disorder?
A: Mood swings are part of most any bipolar disorder, and this is one of the easiest symptoms for parents to pick up on. Without mood swings, it is not bipolar disorder.
Q: It can be difficult for children with bipolar disorder to behave in social situations. Is it appropriate to punish them?
A: No. These are what we call reactive kids—they react explosively—and this is in excess of what you see in normal children. If you punish them, the situation can get even worse. Sympathy and compassion are what they need. This is a tall order for parents, but it’s more effective in the long run.
