Is Your Child Bipolar?

There is no standard test for bipolar disorder, but this checklist, adapted from The Bipolar Child, may help you recognize some warning signs. Place a check next to each behavior your child currently exhibits, or has exhibited in the past. If you mark more than 20 boxes, you should have your child evaluated by a professional.

Is excessively distressed when separated from family.
Exhibits excessive anxiety or worry
Has difficulty arising in the am
Is hyperactive and excitable in the pm
Sleeps fitfully or has difficulty getting to sleep.
Has night terrors or frequently wakes in the middle of the night.
Is unable to communicate at school.
Has poor handwriting
Has difficulty organizing tasks
Has difficulty making transitions
Complains of being bored
Has many ideas at once
Is very intuitive or creative
Is easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.
Has periods of excessive, rapid speech.
Is willful and refuses to be subordinated
Displays periods of extreme hyperactivity
Displays abrupt, rapid mood swings
Has irritable mood states
Has elated or silly, giddy mood states
Has exaggerated ideas about self or abilities
Exhibits inappropriate sexual behavior
Feels easily criticized of rejected
Has decreased initiative
Has periods of low energy or withdraws or isolates self
Has periods of self-doubt and poor self-esteem
Is intolerant of delays
Relentlessly pursues own needs
Argues with adults or bosses others
Defies or refuses to comply with rules
Blames others for his or her own mistakes
Is easily angered when people set limits
Lies to avoid consequences of actions
Has protracted, explosive temper tampers or rages
Has destroyed property intentionally
Curses viciously in anger
Makes moderate threats against others or self
Has made clear threats of suicide
Is fascinated with blood and gore
Has seen or heard hallucinations

If you would like more information about bipolar disorder, and/or suspect you may be suffering from it or from depression, you may want to contact your EAP counselor at 866/443-3277.