James Donaldson on Mental Health - Identifying Mania in Kids and Teens

Mania, which can take the form of an unusually heightened or irritable mood, is often known as a symptom of bipolar disorder .

But it can also be a sign of other mental health disorders or occur on its own.

Some of the most common indicators of a manic episode include: Racing thoughts Prolonged and fast-paced speech Excitability Becoming easily distracted An increase in intense and goal-directed activity (like staying up all night working on a project) Exaggerated self-confidence A decreased need for sleep It’s important to be aware that none of these behaviors by themselves mean that somebody is manic.

“In true mania, a group of symptoms need to be present most of the day, nearly every day, for at least a week,” explains Joanna Stern, PsyD , a clinical psychologist who specializes in mood disorders.

“And they have to represent a significant, noticeable change from the child’s usual behavior.” What does mania look like in children and teens?

Identifying mania in kids can be challenging since descriptions tend to be based on adult behavior.

“People may think of unrestrained buying sprees, sexual indiscretions, or foolish business investments,” says Dr.

“But mania often looks different in kids and teens.” We tend to associate mania with euphoria and other feel-good emotions.

But children are more likely to show signs of irritability and aggression.

Their increased energy level may come out in angry outbursts or tantrums.