Nurturing Minds: Bi-Polar Disorder

Answer 1

Pediatric Bipolar disorder is a long-term chronic illness that can affect children at any age. This mental disorder is a serious condition due to its effects on brain development. Children with bipolar disorder experience episodes of mania and depression. Diagnosing is difficult because symptoms vary for each child in intensity and frequency. Life is a struggle for parents raising a child with bipolar disorder, and it is not easy on other family members either. Families need a strong support system with people and experts who understand the issues.

Diagnosing Bipolar Disorder

Diagnosing a child is not easy because the symptoms are not always present or similar in each case. Parents who suspect a problem with their child should seek immediate professional help. Dangerous symptoms include suicidal thoughts or actions, violent behavior and delusions of grandeur. In emergency situations, parents should dial 911 and request an ambulance while they ensure the safety of their family members. Children with bipolar disorder need to see a psychiatrist specializing in this pediatric illness. It is helpful if parents keep a log of their child's moods, behaviors, sleep patterns and episodes for the doctor's benefit in diagnosing. Once the psychiatrist diagnoses a child with the disorder, parents will want to network with others for support.

Treatment for Bipolar Disorder

The Balanced Mind Foundation is a helpful organization that offers guidance to families with brain disorders. While the child regularly visits a pediatric psychiatrist, the other family members should also seek therapy to learn coping skills. Currently, there is no cure for bipolar disorder; there are only treatments. Children are most often prescribed psychiatric medications and carefully monitored by their parents and medical professionals. Parents are advised to keep a notebook in which they write down the child's medications, side effects and other relevant information. This log will help the child's doctor prescribe the right medication to improve the symptoms and mental suffering.

The Parents' Role

Along with following the psychiatrist's recommendations, parents can do a lot at home to protect their child and family members. No matter the age of the child, parents need to perform extreme childproofing that involves locking away sharp objects, medications and harmful objects. They should always carry a notebook in which they can write down episodes, mood swings and odd behaviors as they occur. A healthy lifestyle complete with nutritious foods, daily exercise and regular sleep schedules can greatly improve the child's well-being. Parents can seek advice on calming methods to soothe their child during dangerous actions. Staying educated about the illness and maintaining a supportive network are the most important ways to care for a child with bipolar disorder.