Treatment Options for Bipolar Disorder in Children

Bipolar disorder is an illness most often detected for the first time in adolescence or adulthood. However, bipolar disorder in children can occur and is sometimes also referred to as early onset bipolar disorder. Manic depression is another general term used to describe this illness. Symptoms in children with bipolar disorder are very much the same as those manifested in teens and adults. There will be emotional ups and downs, often with normal periods in between. These ups and downs are known as manic and depressive episodes.

During a manic episode, the child may be especially energetic or hyper. They may sleep less, be overly sensitive to stimuli and more easily agitated than usual. They might also display defiance to authority and show a tendency towards outbursts and temper tantrums. During a depressive episode, the child may display excessive sadness, crying, changes in appetite and sleep routines, and a loss of interest in favorite activities. These emotional swings can be stressful and traumatic not only for the afflicted child, but their parents or caregivers as well.

The good news is that more is known about early onset bipolar disorder than ever before. If you suspect your child may have this disorder, prompt medical attention is extremely important. Your child's pediatrician should be the first line of contact. They may diagnose the child, or they may refer you to a psychiatrist with more experience in diagnosing and treating children suffering from bipolar disorder.

The first step in treating a child with bipolar disorder is stabilization. Your child's physician or psychiatrist will determine whether or not medication is appropriate. The most common types of medications used to treat bipolar children are antipsychotics and mood stabilizers. Antidepressants are usually not used because they have been shown to increase the risk of mania in both children and adults. In addition, there may be an increased risk of suicide in children and teens taking antidepressants. Whether or not your child should take antidepressants is a decision that is between you and your child's doctor or psychiatrist.

Therapy is often also used when treating bipolar disorder in children. Talk therapy with an experienced professional can help your child understand more about their illness. They will also often be taught coping strategies and stress management techniques. In addition to individual therapy, bipolar children may also need to attend group therapy and/or therapy sessions with parents. When therapy is used in conjunction with any necessary medication, children with bipolar disorder are often able to lead normal lives.

Copyright 2007 Jim Sterling - All Rights Reserved

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