Also known as manic-depression, bipolar disorder can present a diagnostic challenge to mental health professionals because the symptoms are different in children than in adults. Unlike the more predictable patterns of adult bipolar disorder, children often exhibit irritable moods, explosive outbursts and may undergo manic-depressive cycles far more rapidly than adults. As a result, bipolar illness may be overlooked. Left untreated, bipolar disorder may lead to an increase in the frequency of manic and depressive episodes and even suicide. Research shows that the suicide rate for children age 10-14 has more than doubled over the last 15 years.
Bipolar disorder is highly responsive to treatment with mood stabilizers, including lithium.
Lithium is the only mood stabilizer approved by the FDA for the long-term prevention of bipolar disorder. Research also suggests that lithium may reduce suicide risk in bipolar patients by 77 percent. On April 29, leading experts from around the country, including Dr. Weller, will gather to discuss current treatments for children and adolescents suffering with mental illnesses, including bipolar disorder. The session is sponsored by The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, the nation's first children's hospital, is a world-renowned leader in patient care, education and research.