Bipolar disorder (also known as manic depression) is a chronic brain disorder that affects changes in mood, energy, thinking and behaviour.

Signs of bipolar disorder sometimes appear gradually or come on suddenly in any age group.

Some researchers have identified cases of bipolar disorder in preschoolers.

What is clear is it does not affect everyone in the same way.

Recent research suggests that childhood bipolar disorder is a neuro-developmental disorder.

Parts of the brain mature at different rates and times and the brain does not complete development until an individual is about 25.

Consequently, the symptoms and diagnosis of a psychiatric illness may change as a child grows. 

The DSM-IV describes symptoms of four types of this disorder.

People who suspect they or a family member of being bipolar would be well advised to seek medical assistance rather than guess on their own.

According to the Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation, bipolar disorder is often misdiagnosed with ADHD or ADHD with depression, borderline personality disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder or substance abuse.

The best outcomes occur when there is:

■ Early diagnosis and treatment;

■ Access to competent medical care;

■ Adherence to medication and treatment plan; 

■ A flexible but consistent low-stress home and school environment; 

■ A supportive network of family and friends.

Regular sleep patterns help you handle a biological clock that has gone off the rails; regular sleep patterns can reduce mood swings.

Healthy routines are important with consistent sleep and awake times all through the week.

This is especially true for teens, who fall into a weekend pattern of staying up late and sleeping late and then discover on Monday morning their biological rhythms are all messed up.

Even a few missed wake/sleep cycles can have unfortunate consequences.

Exercise fights depression and serves as an important method of stress reduction; it helps you let go of anger, anxiety and tension. 

The naturally occurring beta endorphins the brain releases during exercise have a calming effect on the body. 

Trampolines, punching bags, jump ropes, electronic dance mats and treadmills in front of the TV are some ways to provide an exercise outlet at home. 

There are many forms and varieties of treatment for bipolar disorder ranging from medications to psychotherapy, but there is even greater hope on the horizon as genetic discoveries are expected to lead to more accurate diagnosing, better treatments — and perhaps even a cure.

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