Bipolar disorder generally becomes apparent by the age of 20, but is many times diagnosed earlier, reports the TeensHealth website. Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder that causes shifts in mood from the highs of mania to the lows of depression. According to TeensHealth, bipolar disorder in children can manifest differently than in adults, and it is important for children suspected of having bipolar disorder to receive a full evaluation from a mental health professional to rule out any other disorders that have similar symptoms, such as schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Step 1
Pay attention to changes in mood. According to TeensHealth, children with bipolar disorder can have changes in mood that may occur more frequently and rapidly than in bipolar adults. Children can even go from the highs of mania to the lows of depression within a day, notes TeensHealth. Notice if the child is depressed, sad or overwhelmed at one point in the day and then later in the day is talking quickly and seems very positive and optimistic.
Step 2
Notice how the child interacts with others. Determine if on some days the child cannot seem to get enough time with friends and on other days he wants to remain isolated from everyone.
Step 3
Put the pattern together. Many times, children with bipolar disorder will experience symptoms of mania right after an episode of depression, or vise versa, notes TeensHealth. Be aware of whether or not the child regularly goes from a really good mood to a sad and hopeless mood, or the other way around. Determine if there are triggers to these rapid changes in mood, such as a specific season--e.g., if it seems to happen more often in the winter.
Step 4
Consider the child's family history. According to MayoClinic.com, having blood relatives that have bipolar disorder increases the risk that other family members may develop the disorder because of the genetic component. Determine if either the parents or grandparents have or had the disorder. Find out whether a family member may have been undiagnosed, but displayed the symptoms of bipolar disorder.
Step 5
Pay attention to alcohol or drug use. TeensHealth notes that teens with bipolar disorder may abuse drugs and/or alcohol in order to reduce their symptoms. Look for signs of intoxication such as red eyes, mumbled speech, fatigue, inappropriate behaviors, and smelling of alcohol or drugs.
Step 6
Be aware of any self-destructive behaviors. TeensHealth reports that bipolar children may engage in self-injurious behaviors. Pay attention to cuts or burns on the child. Look for unexplained scars or sores. Notice whether the child spends a lot of time alone in her room or the bathroom.
