Bipolar+Disorder+in+Children+and+Adolescents

Previously bipolar was considered extremely rare in children however, research has shown that it is quite common but undiagnosed because the condition presents differently than adults. Also in addition to this most children are also dealing with other childhood mental health disorders which blend into each other and make the diagnosis that much more difficult. //**__ Diagnosis: __**// Extensive research has improved diagnosing child bipolar disorder immensely.Preliminary studies are showing a genetic link to contracting the disease so if either or both parents have bipolar the children will be significantly at risk to contract the disease.Changes in the brain, environmental factors such as extreme stress, major life changes and any family history of substance abuse puts the risk factors up substantially.Due to the extreme difficulty of diagnosing this illness in children and teens, special attention over long periods of time are needed to make a proper diagnosis.A complete psychiatric assessment by a professional and a tool such as a mood chart for the patient to track changes in symptoms are important tools in diagnosing so treatment can soon begin.
 * __Bipolar Disorder in Children and Adolescents:__ ** [[image:http://images.agoramedia.com/everydayhealth/gcms/photogallery_famous_people_with_bipolar_disorder_10_full.jpg width="180" height="240" caption="The Price of Fame?"]]Britney Spears
 * //__Manic Symptoms:__// ** Both mania and depression will be exhibited by the child or teen, depression being primarily the most common symptom.Mood swings, extreme happiness, silliness, unreal perceptions of self esteem, incredible bursts of energy along with no foreseeable tiredness are just some of the symptoms displayed along with talkativeness, inability to focus, repeatedly making poor decisions, aggressive sexual behavior and substance abuse.
 * __//Depressive Symptoms:// __** At the far end of the emotional spectrim depressive symptoms are exhibited by the adolescent who may have child bipolar disorder. Those symptoms include extreme touchiness, melancholy, profound sorrow, uncontrollable crying, thoughts of suicide, lack of enjoyment with former activities, frequent complaints of physical illness, low energy, inability to focus, boredom and a major change in eating or sleeping habits.(lifeloveandbipolar.com/child_bipolar_disorder.html).
 * __//Treatment:// __** Child bipolar disorder cannot be cured. However, the patient and their family members can be taught how to treat this disorder woth proper education. Medications such as lithium can be prescribed as part of the prescription program to stabilize the mood of the patient. The use of psychotherapy serves helps the child know themselves, respond to stress appropriately, restore self-esteem and improve relationships.