How do parents determine if their child has bipolar disorder?
The first step is to have the child in question evaluated by a physician familiar with bipolar disorder and other childhood psychiatric disorders. By evaluating the problems and looking at the family history, as well as examining the child, the diagnosis should become clear. Remember, children are a work in progress. Sometimes observation may be necessary for a long period of time, before the correct diagnosis can be given. It should also be noted that once a child is diagnosed, a successful treatment plan may take some time to be determined— though it’s generally discovered eventually. What kind of help is available? A variety of professionals are involved with the treatment of childhood mental health disorders. If parents need a referral, they can ask their child’s pediatrician, the school guidance counselor or friends whose children have undergone treatment. Many communities have local mental health centers that offer diverse treatments. Assessment and treatment may also be availabl
