Expert: Joyce A. Anthony - 10/23/2007

Question
My 8 yr old son and I just moved to a new school district this year.  He started having some violent outbursts at school (throwing a tray, knocking over desks) which are getting more violent each time he has one.  Yeasterday he told his teacher he was going to kill himself.  When he is calm he is an extremely happy and logical child.  But when he has a rage, there is no getting through to him.  I just found out yesterday that his father was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at the age of 12. (we no longer speak to him or see him)  My question is, what are the chances my son is experiencing the symptoms of bipolar disorder?  And how can I help him.

Answer
Hi Concerned Mama:

The chances of a child being bipolar when one parent is, is 25 percent--and this increases by five percent for each generation back the disorder goes.  

Often, symptoms of the disorder will appear after a child goes through some event that causes extreme stress, such as a move to a new area.

It is possible your son may be showing signs of bipolar disorder.  The only way to be certain is to make an appointment with a certified child mental health worker and have him evaluated. Once this is done, the next course of action can be determined.

The sooner a diagnosis is made and treatment started, the greater the chances of keeping this disorder under control.  My advice would be to make an appointment for an evaluation as soon as possible and then you will be able to better see what course of treatment is best.
              Joyce A. Anthony