Bipolar Disorder in Children

What are emotional disorders? Here is just a little on the back ground and

what I have learned. It is estimated that as many as one in five children and

adolescents may have a mental health disorder that can be identified and require

treatment.

The definition for emotional disturbance under the Individuals with Disabilities

Education Act 2004 (IDEA 2004) as it applies to special education programs receiving

federal funds as follows:

"...a condition exhibiting one or more of the following characteristics over a long period of time and to a marked degree that adversely affects a child's educational performance—

(A) An inability to learn that cannot be explained by intellectual, sensory, or health

factors.

(B) An inability to build or maintain satisfactory interpersonal relationships with

peers and teachers.

(C) Inappropriate types of behavior or feelings under normal circumstances.

(D) A general pervasive mood of unhappiness or depression.

(E) A tendency to develop physical symptoms or fears associated with personal or

school problems." [Code of Federal Regulations, Title 34, Section 300.7(c)(4)(i)]

As defined by the IDEA, emotional disturbance includes schizophrenia but does not

apply to children who are socially maladjusted, unless it is determined that they have

an emotional disturbance. [Code of Federal Regulation, Title 34, Section

300.7(c)(4)(ii)]

What is Bipolar Disorder? How can you tell in children? What should you do

now? It is a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in a person’s mood, energy,

and ability to function. It affects 5.7 million American adults, and is estimated to be

at least as common among youth as with adults. Just like diabetes, bipolar is a long-

term illness that must be managed throughout a person’s lifetime. A consistent

treatment plan can have a positive stabilizing effect on mood swings and related

symptoms.

What are the symptoms of Bipolar Disorder? Diagnosing children with bipolar...