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Child Behavior (Expert Forum)
I need a 'good' explanation of Bi-Polar
Answered by
Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D. - Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy, Family Therapy, Crisis Intervention
Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates
This forum is for questions and support regarding child behavior issues such: Child Discipline (behavior management), Normal Child Development, Parent-Child Communications, Social Development
I need a 'good' explanation of Bi-Polar
by Denise Holder, Mar 20, 2000 12:00AM
A doctor is saying my 13 year old ADHD son may be Bi-Polar. Just exactly what is that please.
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D., Mar 22, 2000 12:00AM
, Mar 22, 2000 12:00AM
Dear Ms. Holder,
Bipolar Disorder is one type of a category of emotional illness called Mood Disorders. Bipolar Disorder is characterized by the presence or history of both depressive episodes and manic or hypomanic episodes. In adolescents, the so-called manic component of the condition is usually typified by volatility, reactivity, extreme irritability, etc., rather than by the kind of mania that we see in the adult population.
Typically, bipolar disorder is treated in part by a combination of antidepressant and mood stabilizing medications, and possibly (for a time) anti-psychotic medication.
Bipolar Disorder is one type of a category of emotional illness called Mood Disorders. Bipolar Disorder is characterized by the presence or history of both depressive episodes and manic or hypomanic episodes. In adolescents, the so-called manic component of the condition is usually typified by volatility, reactivity, extreme irritability, etc., rather than by the kind of mania that we see in the adult population.
Typically, bipolar disorder is treated in part by a combination of antidepressant and mood stabilizing medications, and possibly (for a time) anti-psychotic medication.
Mental Health Net has a good information page, too, at the following web address:
http://bipolar.mentalhelp.net/
Best wishes to you and your son.