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Step 1
Observe your child's behavior. If his mood alternates frequently between extremes of depression and elation or irritability, or if one of these types of moods persists, he may be suffering from bipolar disorder.
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Step 2
Talk to your child's pediatrician about your concerns regarding your child's moods. Ask for a recommendation for a psychiatrist or psychologist who is experienced in treating bipolar disorder and who can evaluate your child for this condition.
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Step 3
Interview potential therapists or psychiatrists over the phone before making an initial appointment. Inform each one about the symptoms your child is exhibiting.
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Step 4
Ask each doctor how he treats bipolar disorder. Inquire about medication and what medications the doctor uses to treat bipolar disorder.
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Step 5
Express any concerns you might have about the warnings on use of antidepressant medications in children and adolescents. Ask the doctor how she views those warnings and whether they affect her decisions to prescribe antidepressants for her young patients.
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Step 6
When you have found a psychiatrist or psychologist who sounds like the right person for your child, take your child to the first appointment. The doctor will probably want to speak with you before beginning to work with your child one-on-one, to find out more about the child's behaviors and struggles. Be as open and detailed as possible, as your input is valuable to the therapist's understanding of your child.
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Step 7
Discuss with the doctor ways you can support your child's therapeutic work at home. Request titles of books that may help you to better understand bipolar disorder and its treatment.
