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 ADHDSymptoms of bipolar disorder | Symptoms of ADHD |
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The child's mood and behaviour problems get distinctly worse or more intense for days at a time, but then return to the child's usual behaviour. | The child has difficult behaviours (such as impulsivity and hyperactivity) that are fairly consistent. |
Mood swings and strange behaviours occur unpredictably. The child may be withdrawn or irritable one moment and extremely happy or giddy the next. | The child's moods can change quickly but are not extreme. These changes in mood are usually in response to something. |
The child's response to external events is prolonged and out of proportion to the event. | The child's reaction to external events is not extreme and is resolved in a normal amount of time. |
The child shows signs of hypersexuality (talking or thinking about sex, having sex, or using sexual language). | The child can show some signs of sexually inappropriate behaviour. But the behaviour is usually not severe or the child can be distracted from this behaviour. |
Sleep disturbances and inability to sleep occur periodically. The child often has plenty of energy despite not getting much sleep. | 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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Current as of: July 31, 2024
Current as of: July 31, 2024
