Disorder bipolar not only do adults suffer from it, it can also affect children and young people. This type of disorder is one of the most common and due to it the person can go from a feeling of euphoria to a deep depression in a very short time.
In the case of children, the great problem of bipolar disorder is that parents sometimes confuse the symptoms of such a mental problem with behaviors typical of age. Parents should be clear at all times if their child suffers from bipolarity since in such a case it is important to treat it as quickly as possible.
Bipolar Disorder in Children and Adolescents
During childhood and adolescence, it is normal for children to suffer constant mood swings and show somewhat rebellious behavior in front of their parents. However, if the parents appreciate how these symptoms get worse and are prolonged over time, it is good to go to the doctor to rule out any mental problem such as bipolar disorder. This type of disorder must be treated as soon as possible to avoid certain developmental problems. Unfortunately, bipolar disorder has no cure today, although good treatment helps the little one to have a life like that of other children.
Symptoms of bipolar disorder in children and young people
If the child is diagnosed with bipolar disorder, it is normal for him to suffer depressive episodes on a regular basis. These episodes can last for weeks, leading to severe changes in mood and behavior. Here are some of the most common symptoms of bipolar disorder:
- Aggressive, angry and hyperactive behavior.
- Some difficulty sleeping the hours your body needs.
- Serious concentration problems.
- Guilt.
- Sadness and apathy for no possible reason.
- Suicidal thoughts.
How to Treat a Child or Youth With Bipolar Disorder
The person in charge of diagnosing that the child suffers from bipolar disorder will be a professional specialized in mental health. Before starting treatment, it is important to know what type of bipolar disorder the child suffers from:
- Type one causes the child or adolescent suffer manic episodes along with depressive episodes from time to time.
- Type two makes the child suffer most of all depressive episodes.
- Cyclothymia is the third class of bipolar disorder and because of it, the child undergoes various mild emotional changes.
Once the type of disorder suffered by the child or young person has been identified, it is important to start an adequate treatment as well as effective. As in the case of adults, this treatment will combine the intake of certain drugs with therapy. The dose to be taken is established by the doctor and it can only be suspended if the professional so indicates. For its part, therapy is key in ensuring that the child can improve their relationships with both friends and family. The important thing is to ensure that the child can lead a life as normal as possible.
The work of parents
Apart from drugs and therapy, the role of parents in treatment is key and essential. It is advisable that parents keep a daily control of possible changes in behavior and other episodes that should be highlighted in the child's day-to-day life. In this way, a good follow-up of the illness suffered by the child can be carried out. In addition to this, parents must be as understanding as possible with the child's behavior and show them as much support as possible so that they do not feel alone at any time. Having a child with bipolar disorder is not easy for parents, so they must remain calm and collected at all times.