Bipolar disorder in children: How early can it be diagnosed?

Although bipolar disorder usually affects adults, there is substantial evidence that it also can occur in children. Making a diagnosis of bipolar disorder in children may be more difficult because its symptoms may be different in children and adolescents than in adults. In addition, some symptoms of bipolar disorder may be initially mistaken as normal mood swings or other psychiatric disorders, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or conduct disorder.

However, unlike the normal turbulence of late childhood and adolescence, bipolar disorder is associated with severe difficulties in daily functioning at home and school and with peers.

A family history of bipolar disorder is associated with a greater risk of bipolar disorder in children. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, symptoms of bipolar disorder in children and adolescents include:

• Destructive outbursts
• Physical complaints, such as headaches
• Changes in school performance and relationships with peers
• School absences
• Substance abuse

If your child exhibits such symptoms, it is important that he or she be evaluated by a mental health professional that specializes in child psychiatry to establish an appropriate diagnosis and prescribe effective treatment. Earlier intervention may prevent serious consequences and improve the course of bipolar disorder in children.