Treatment of childhood bipolar can stabilize mood and control symptoms. Learn more about treatment of bipolar children and the parent's role in treatment.

Although there is no cure for bipolar disorder in children, in most cases treatment can stabilize mood and allow for management and control of symptoms.

A good treatment plan for bipolar disorder includes medication, close monitoring of symptoms, education about the illness, counseling or psychotherapy for the individual and family, stress reduction, good nutrition, regular sleep and exercise, and participation in a network of support.

The response to bipolar medications and treatment varies. Factors that contribute to a better outcome are:

• access to competent medical care
• early diagnosis and treatment
• adherence to medication and treatment plan
• a flexible, low-stress home and school environment
• a supportive network of family and friends

Factors that complicate bipolar treatment are:

• lack of access to competent medical care
• time lag between onset of illness and treatment
• not taking prescribed medications
• stressful and inflexible home and school environment
• the co-occurrence of other diagnoses
• use of substances such as illegal drugs and alcohol

The good news is that with appropriate treatment and support at home and at school, many children with bipolar disorder achieve a marked reduction in the severity, frequency and duration of episodes of illness. With education about their illness (as is provided to children with epilepsy, diabetes, and other chronic conditions) they learn how to manage and monitor their symptoms as they grow older.

The parent's role in treatment

As with other chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy, and asthma, children and adolescents with bipolar disorder and their families need to work closely with their doctor and other treatment professionals. Having the entire family involved in the child's treatment plan can usually reduce the frequency, duration, and severity of episodes. It can also help improve the child's ability to function successfully at home, in school, and in the community.

Parents: Learn all you can about bipolar disorder. Read, join support groups, and network with other parents. There are many questions still unanswered about early onset bipolar disorder, but early intervention and treatment can often stabilize mood and restore wellness. You can best manage relapses by prompt intervention at the first re-occurrence of symptoms. (more: How Can I Help My Bipolar Child?)

Sources:

• Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation website.
• Papolos DF, Papolos J: The Bipolar Child: The Definitive and Reassuring Guide to Childhood's Most Misunderstood Disorder, 3rd ed. New York, NY, Broadway Books, 2006.

next: Medication and Therapy for Treating Bipolar Disorder in Children