Differences Between ADHD and Bipolar Disorder in Children
Overview
Bipolar disorder
in children and teens and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are similar. It is possible for a child to have both conditions. But certain symptoms help distinguish one from the other:
Comparing symptoms of bipolar disorder and ADHD
Symptoms of bipolar disorder
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Symptoms of ADHD
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The child's mood and behavior problems get distinctly worse or more intense for days at a time, but then return to the child's usual behavior.
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The child has difficult behaviors (such as impulsivity and hyperactivity) that are fairly consistent.
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Mood swings and strange behaviors occur unpredictably. The child may be withdrawn or irritable one moment and extremely happy or giddy the next.
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The child's moods can change quickly but are not extreme. These changes in mood are usually in response to something.
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The child's response to external events is prolonged and out of proportion to the event.
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The child's reaction to external events is not extreme and is resolved in a normal amount of time.
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The child shows signs of hypersexuality (talking or thinking about sex, having sex, or using sexual language).
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The child can show some signs of sexually inappropriate behavior. But the behavior is usually not severe or the child can be distracted from this behavior.
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Sleep disturbances and inability to sleep occur periodically. The child often has plenty of energy despite not getting much sleep.
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Sleep disturbances and inability to sleep are long-term (chronic). The child is usually tired when he or she does not get enough sleep.
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Credits
Current as of:
June 24, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Current as of: June 24, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.