Why is Bipolar Disorder Often Underdiagnosed in Children?
By Anne B. Brown →Source: NARSAD Research Newsletter, Winter 2002/2003 Bipolar disorder is one of the most difficult illnesses to recognize and diagnose in children because it does not fit precisely the symptom criteria established for adults, and because its symptoms can resemble or co-occur with those of other common childhood-onset psychiatric disorders. Since the bipolar symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and even hyperactivity overlap with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), there is concern that ADHD is being overdiagnosed and bipolar disorder is being underdiagnosed in children. Experts estimate that one-third of all children in this country who are being diagnosed with ADHD are actually suffering from early symptoms of bipolar disorder.
