Children whose mother or father is affected by bipolar disorder may need to keep their stress levels in check. A new international study, led by Concordia University, suggests the stress hormone cortisol is a key player in the mood disorder. The findings published in Psychological Medicine, are the first to show children whose mother or father is affected by bipolar disorder are more easily affected by stress. When faced with normal everyday stress, their cortisol levels peak sooner.
Research has shown that children of parents with bipolar disorder are four times as likely to develop mood disorders compared to the general population. This may be due to the genetic factors associated with bipolar.
Long-term activation of the stress hormone cortisol can lead to negative health consequences such as; digestive problems, heart disease, sleep issues, depression, memory loss and obesity. It is important to be aware that your child may experience everyday stress as overwhelming. Parents can help their children by helping them to learn positive strategies for coping with stress.
Simple stress management strategies can include:
Research has shown that children of parents with bipolar disorder are four times as likely to develop mood disorders compared to the general population. This may be due to the genetic factors associated with bipolar.
Long-term activation of the stress hormone cortisol can lead to negative health consequences such as; digestive problems, heart disease, sleep issues, depression, memory loss and obesity. It is important to be aware that your child may experience everyday stress as overwhelming. Parents can help their children by helping them to learn positive strategies for coping with stress.
Simple stress management strategies can include:
- Taking more time to help your child transition from one activity to the next
- Keeping your child on a regular schedule
- Eating a healthy diet
- Exercising, playing outdoor games, and being active as a way of reducing stress
- Help your child learn how to relax through deep breathing exercise, yoga, quiet time, blowing bubbles, or other relaxation techniques
- Getting adequate sleep and creating a sleep friendly bedroom (no TVs in bedrooms)
- Help your child express their emotions both positive and negative emotions and validate their emotional experiences
- Seek professional psychotherapy when needed
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