Bipolar disorder has a strong genetic component. That means if a child’s family has a history of bipolar disorder, the child is more likely to suffer from it. But in the case of adopted children, that family history may not be available, making misdiagnosis even more possible. Experts say that in every generation since World War II, the age that symptoms of bipolar disorder show up is earlier and earlier. For example, children with bipolar disorder seem to experience their first symptoms 10 years earlier than their parents did.
Bipolar disorder is often mistaken for other disorders, such as depression, conduct disorder, ADHD and anxiety. But it’s also common for these disorders to be partnered with, or “co-morbid,” with bipolar disorder. In some kids, treatments for the others conditions can make the bipolar disorder worse. In others, treating the bipolar disorder first makes the other conditions less severe.
Diagnosing Bipolar Disorder in Children
Parents who suspect that their young child has bipolar disorder should keep a chart of moods, sleep patterns, tantrums and anything the child says that may be cause for concern (such as violent or suicidal statements). Take these notes with you to your pediatrician and ask them to refer you to a board-certified child psychiatrist who specializes in bipolar disorder. Do not let the pediatrician prescribe medication for this disorder; while pediatricians are excellent resources for regular childhood illnesses, they are not generally qualified to treat psychiatric illnesses other than ADHD or mild anxiety. If you don’t live near a child psychiatrist, try an adult psychiatrist with an extensive background in mood disorders.