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| Age of Onset Influences Prognosis in Bipolar -- Internet Source
People with bipolar disorder whose symptoms began in childhood have a worse prognosis as adults. The earlier in life an individual’s bipolar symptoms appear, and the longer the illness goes undiagnosed and untreated, the more severe the illness seems to be throughout life. Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, is a mental disorder that is characterized by alternating periods of mania (elevated or agitated mood) and depression. Bipolar disorder affects more than 5 million American adults. Although the average age of onset is 25 years, there is an increasing awareness of the disease in children. Bipolar disorder in children often presents differently than in adults and can be difficult to diagnose. |