What age can bipolar disorder or schizophrenia be seen in children?what are symptoms to look for?

Evaluate now!: If you are even remotely considering the possibility of schizophrenia, then this child warrants a thorough eval by a mental health professional specializing in children. "bipolar" is thrown around much too casually these days; many "normal" kids may exhibit extreme reactions, including anger, &not have pathology. Determining the difference btwn developmental & ominous conditions, takes an expert.

Rare before age 9: The younger the age, the more difficult the diagnosis is. It is rare to make a clear and convincing diagnosis before age 9. Most people have first episodes in late adolescence or in their 20's. Symptoms are similar to adults except that mood symptoms (depression and mania) may be less clear and the diagnosis may be based more on behavior. Also usually anxiety is prominent, not a specific symptom.

Research: Recent research demonstrates that juvenile bipolar disorder can be diagnosed as young as five yo by an experienced physician. In fact same research shows early treatment mitigates risk of persistent bipolar disorder in adulthood. Dr. Papolos is a leading researcher on this topic & has published a bipolar questionnaire. See http://bipolarchild.Com/resources/jbrf/.