How Do You Diagnose Bipolar In A Child?
Bipolar disorder (sometimes called manic-depressive illness) is a mental disorder characterized by extreme mood swings. While the median age of onset for bipolar disorders is 25 years, researchers have identified bipolar disorder in every age group, including preschoolers. By recognizing symptoms of bipolar disorder early, you can help your child get a head start on managing her symptoms. Consult the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV). The DSM-IV is the standard reference for diagnosing psychiatric disorders. As of 2009, the DSM-IV only lists adult bipolar disorder, and the medical community is divided as to whether a separate listing for children should be included in the manual. You can find the DSM-IV criteria for adult bipolar disorder at the link below. Use the Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation checklist. Due to the lack of a child’s listing in the DSM-IV, the Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation (CABF) has created a checklist of behaviors comm
