Although they may share characteristics, the underlying reasons for the behaviors are different. Those with ADHD may often break items (a common complaint of parents of children with ADHD) but may do so from carelessness or not paying attention to their environment. Destructiveness in people with bipolar disorder may do so out of anger and the inability to control their anger. Temper tantrums in children with ADHD are often caused by over-stimulation while those in children with bipolar disorder are many times the result of a conflict with authority. The time it takes to recover from a temper tantrum is also much shorter in children with ADHD, sometimes by as much as a few hours difference. The inability to focus or follow through on projects in those with ADHD can be caused by distraction while in those with bipolar the major source can be lack of motivation.
Even though ADHD and Bipolar Disorder are two separate diagnoses, it is possible for an individual to have both. Comorbidity is common in individuals with ADHD, with some experts believing that upwards of 70% of those diagnosed with ADHD will be diagnosed with a second disorder sometimes in their lives.
Bipolar disorder, like ADHD is thought to run in families. For those with a family history of bipolar, it is important to discuss this with your physician. Even if you do not currently show any symptoms of bipolar disorder, your doctor should be aware of the situation in order to monitor your treatment. Stimulant medication can agitate bipolar disorder and has been shown to sometimes worsen the symptoms of it. Bipolar disorder is often treated with mood stabilizers. You and your doctor will need to determine the best course of treatment if you are considered to have bipolar and ADHD.
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