How Can I Tell If My Child Is Relapsing Or Just Having Ups And Downs?

Dr. Findling answers the question: 'Is My Child Having A Bipolar Relapse?'

ByABC News
February 28, 2008, 1:06 PM

— -- Question: How can I tell if my child is relapsing or just having ups and downs?

Answer: Well certainly during the more extreme areas of difficulty that's reasonably straightforward because these are certainly able to be noticed by people who are not trained in the mental health field. However, as it becomes more close to perhaps extremes of regular childhood or adolescent development then it becomes more difficult. And again, it's a real good reason that if these concerns are raised that a parent, a guardian or a youngster have a good working relationship with a clinician who's skilled in this field to help them negotiate whether or not this is expectable or perhaps part of the illness.

Next: Can Mania Be Dangerous, And How Can I Tell When My Child's Thoughts (Of Self-Harm, Etc.) Might Require Emergency Help?

Previous: How Can I Tell The Difference Between A Bipolar Relapse And The Daily 'Ups' And 'Downs' Of Ordinary Life?