What is Childhood Onset Bipolar Disorder?
Children with symptoms of this disorder rarely fit the classis symptoms associated with adult Bipolar I or Bipolar II Disorder. Adults with bipolar disorder cycle between episodes of depression and a heightened or elevated mood state called mania or hypomania. Many adults with this disorder experience periods of wellness in between episodes of cycling. Children with bipolar disorder do not display this clear pattern. They tend to cycle more rapidly with frequent highs and lows within can happen within just one day. Some Symptoms Associated with Childhood Onset Bipolar Disorder are: Oppositional attitude and/or behavior Very irritable Periods of explosive rage triggered by a parent setting a limit or telling the child no Long drawn out tantrums where reasoning or distraction from the topic is virtually impossible Tantrums may include aggressive behavior toward family members, self, or property May not show this behavior to others outside of the family Frequent and/or seemingly abrupt mo
