BIPOLAR SYNDROME

​

​

​

Bipolar disorder or manic-depression is a psychiatric condition defined by periods of extreme, inappropriate or unpredictable mood states. Bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness that affects the child’s behaviour. This disorder is often associated with a variety of deficits, in particular, difficulty in organising and planning. This disorder can interfere with a child’s functioning in the family, at school and with friends.

In children, it can be difficult to tell the difference between a depressive and a manic episode, especially if cycles are rapid or symptoms of depression and mania occur together. Irritability may progress into severe, seizure-like temper tantrums when the child is told, "no." A bipolar child may kick, bite, hit, and make hateful comments, including threats and curses during tantrums, which may last for hours, a child may destroy property or become increasingly violent.

Symptoms of bipolar disorder in children are often confused with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and although the two conditions are frequently confused, they are very different.

​

​