Bipolar Disorder in Children and Teens
Cause
The cause of bipolar disorder is not well understood.
It seems to run in families. Your child is at greater risk of having bipolar disorder if a close family member such as a parent, grandparent, brother, or sister has it.
Stressful or traumatic events may trigger episodes of Reference mania Opens New Window or Reference depression Opens New Window in a child with bipolar disorder. While it is normal for such events to cause mood changes, these reactions are much more extreme for children with bipolar disorder.
Sometimes symptoms of mania occur as a result of another medical condition, such as an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) or Reference multiple sclerosis Opens New Window. Symptoms can also develop as a side effect of some medicines, such as Reference corticosteroids Opens New Window or antidepressants. Using drugs or alcohol, consuming too much caffeine, or not getting enough sleep can also trigger a Reference manic episode.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference April 16, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference John Pope, MD - Pediatrics
Reference David A. Axelson, MD - Child and Adolescent Psychiatry |
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