How fast does a bipolar child cycle between moods?

Officially? Not.: It is not in the dsm. I'm glad, but some think it should be and that the symptoms are similar to adult but are marked by more rapid mood swings (a few hrs - days), hyperactivity and irritability. The highs/lows are intense and can be dangerous. These symptoms must also cause significant distress in the child, occur in more than just one setting -at school and at home- and last for at least 2 weeks.

Mood disorder: Bipolar Disorder in Children now falls under the umbrella of disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) in DSM V. Cycling of moods can be very rapid (minutes to hours). However, I will let you know that there are many mental health providers who do not believe in the existence of rapid cycling forms of bipolar disorder.