This disorder, also commonly known as a BiPolar Disorder, is characterised by periods where the subjects mood and activity levels are significantly disturbed and swing between the two extremes of Mania and Depression. Onset of the disorder usually follows a stressful life change (i.e. moving home/school, death of a parent/sibling etc.) or mental trauma (e.g. witnessing or being involved in a serious accident). As the disorder progresses through more cycles, the depressive periods increase in duration and the manic or remission periods reduce.
The practical role of the Mainstream Teacher is highlighted in each of the following strategies although different social, medical and psychological agencies will also be involved to differing degrees in implementing the strategies.
NB. The Prime Strategy will be Medical Supervision with Pharmacological/ Drug Intervention and Counselling
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“Depressive Disorder in Childhood and Adolescents”, R. Harrington (1995), London,
“Childhood Behavioural Disorders and Emotional Disturbance: An Introduction to”, S.J. Apter & J.C. Conoley (1994), London, Prentice-Hall.
“Chosen with Care?: Responses to Disturbing and Disruptive Behaviour”,
G. Lloyd (1992), Edinburgh, May House Publications.
There is a good layperson's guide on BiPolar Disorders including Manic Depression at http://www.ka.net/jozgirl/bipol.html.
More links and data can be found at
The Internet Mental Health Pages: BiPolar Disorders
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