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Bipolar Disorder in Children and Teens

Bipolar disorder in children older than age 6 or in teens is a mood problem that causes extreme ups and downs.

When children are up, they have brief, intense outbursts or feel irritable or extremely happy (mania) several times almost every day. They may talk very fast and have increased energy and activity levels. When they are down, children and teens with bipolar disorder feel depressed and sad.

Treatment usually involves medicine and counseling.

Last Revised: April 12, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: John Pope, MD - Pediatrics & David A. Axelson, MD - Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

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