Bipolar disorder is a serious mental health condition that affects a child’s mood, actions, and relationships. It causes extreme mood swings, with high-energy (manic) and low-energy (depressive) episodes, which can disrupt a child’s everyday life, social interactions, and overall growth. Bipolar disorder can be hard to diagnose and treat, but with the right help and therapy, children can learn to manage their symptoms and live well.
Symptoms
• Manic episodes: Periods of extreme energy, excitement, or irritability, which can last from a few hours
to several days. During these episodes, children may:
+ Talk rapidly or loudly
+ Have difficulty sleeping or feel rested after only a few hours of sleep
+ Engage in impulsive or reckless behavior, such as spending money or taking risks
+ Feel invincible or have grandiose ideas
• Depressive episodes: Periods of persistent sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness, which can last from
several days to several weeks. During these episodes, children may:
+ Lose interest in activities they once enjoyed
+ Experience changes in appetite or sleep patterns
+ Feel tired, sluggish, or have low energy
+ Have difficulty concentrating or paying attention
• Mixed episodes: Periods of both manic and depressive symptoms, which can be particularly
challenging to manage.
to several days. During these episodes, children may:
+ Talk rapidly or loudly
+ Have difficulty sleeping or feel rested after only a few hours of sleep
+ Engage in impulsive or reckless behavior, such as spending money or taking risks
+ Feel invincible or have grandiose ideas
• Depressive episodes: Periods of persistent sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness, which can last from
several days to several weeks. During these episodes, children may:
+ Lose interest in activities they once enjoyed
+ Experience changes in appetite or sleep patterns
+ Feel tired, sluggish, or have low energy
+ Have difficulty concentrating or paying attention
• Mixed episodes: Periods of both manic and depressive symptoms, which can be particularly
challenging to manage.
Causes
- Genetics: Family history of anxiety disorders
- Brain development: Children’s brains are still developing, and anxiety can be a normal part of growth
- Life experiences: Trauma, stress, or significant life changes, such as moving or starting a new school
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as ADHD or autism spectrum disorder, can contribute to anxiety
Diagnosis
- Clinical interviews and assessments with your child and family
- Psychological evaluations and questionnaires
- Medical examinations and laboratory tests (if necessary)
Treatment Options
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): A type of talk therapy that helps your child identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
- Play therapy: A type of therapy that uses play to help your child express and process their emotions.
- Family therapy: A type of therapy that involves the whole family in the treatment process.
- Medications: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help alleviate symptoms.
Why Choose Us
Expert team
Our pediatric specialists have extensive experience in treating children.
Personalized care
We create treatment plans that fit each child’s unique needs
Support and education
We teach children and families how to care for them and prevent future cases
Advanced treatments
Access to the latest treatments and products
Contact
Please feel free to contact us with any general or medical enquiry by calling us.
