Common Signs & Symptoms of Early Onset of Childhood Bipolar

Common Signs/Symptoms of Early Onset Childhood Bipolar

Many caregivers struggle with whether their child's behavior is normal for his developmental age or if there is more to be concerned about. The following are some symptoms to watch for--some are very common for young childre while others are strong indications something is amiss. As with anything, caregivers need to seek the advice of a professional in order to determine for sure whether their child has bipolar. Early detection and treatment is essential.

Very Common Symptoms of Early-Onset Bipolar Disorder


•Separation anxiety

•Rages & explosive temper tantrums (lasting up to several hours)

•Marked irritability

•Oppositional behavior

•Frequent mood swings

•Distractibility

•Hyperactivity

•Impulsivity

•Restlessness/ fidgetiness

•Silliness, goofiness, giddiness

•Racing thoughts

•Aggressive behavior

•Grandiosity

•Carbohydrate cravings

•Risk-taking behaviors

•Depressed mood

•Lethargy

•Low self-esteem

•Difficulty getting up in the morning

•Social anxiety

•Oversensitivity to emotional or environmental triggers


Common Symptoms of Early-Onset Bipolar Disorder

•Bed-wetting (especially in boys)

•Night terrors

•Rapid or pressured speech

•Obsessional behavior

•Excessive daydreaming

•Compulsive behavior

•Motor & vocal tics

•Learning disabilities

•Poor short-term memory

•Lack of organization

•Fascination with gore or morbid topics

•Hypersexuality

•Manipulative behavior

•Bossiness

•Lying

•Suicidal thoughts

•Destruction of property

•Paranoia

•Hallucinations & delusions


Less Common Symptoms of Early-Onset Bipolar Disorder

•Migraine headaches

•Binging

•Self-mutilating behaviors

•Cruelty to animals