1. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) mimics the signs of bipolar disorder in children. Children with bipolar disorder may seem hyperactive, change from one thought to another rapidly and be unable to stay on task for any length of time. Traditional ADHD medications do not usually work, and some of these medications can even make bipolar disorder in children worse. If either of these circumstances is true, a full evaluation by a physician who is trained in children's bipolar disorder is needed.
2. Grandiose Thoughts or Behaviors
Children with bipolar disorder often have thoughts that, while far-fetched, seem perfectly normal to them. For example, they may feel that they are able to complete tasks that are beyond their age range, such as drive a race car at a young age or teach school. They may attempt dangerous activities without regard to the risk involved. Some children view themselves as "super-smart" and un-teachable through regular systems of learning.
3. Risky Sexual Behavior
One symptom of bipolar disorder in children is risky sexual behavior, even if the child has no history of sexual abuse. They may also touch others inappropriately or use sexual language. Adults often view their behavior as overly flirtatious instead of a symptom of a mental health disorder.
4. Irregular Sleep Patterns
Many children with bipolar disorder are able to alter their sleep patterns without affecting their behavior the next day. Ordinarily, children require 8 to 10 hours of sleep at night in order to be well-rested. A bipolar child may be able to function normally on only 4 to 6 hours of sleep and will not appear bothered by the lack of sleep. Not only will the child be able to function normally, but they may also seem hyperactive. This is another reason that bipolar disorder in children mimics ADHD.
5. Increased Mood Cycling
An adult with bipolar disorder cycles between a variety of moods, but with much less frequency than that of a child with bipolar disorder. These moods may range from extreme highs to deep depression within a shorter period of time. Aggression and anger in bipolar children is more pronounced than it is in other children. They may be hard to calm, easily frustrated and lack the capacity to understand why they are exhibiting these emotions. The risk of suicide in children is also increased due to the depth of depression that they can experience within such a shortened period of time.
