For more information, please call: 888-226-0766

Bipolar Disorder in Teenagers: An Overview

Bipolar Disorder in Teenagers: An Overview

For most people, the teenage years are the most difficult phase to navigate. Teenagers experience a whirlwind of emotions and unfamiliar experiences that are both confusing and exciting. However, if you notice your teen being more erratic than usual and is exhibiting extreme behavior changes, there is a chance that they may have bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder typically affects teenagers and young adults. It’s defined by periods of extreme happiness and intense depression either preceded or followed by a manic episode.

Bipolar teens tend to be irritable during manic episodes and exhibit various symptoms, such as the inability to focus on school, a short temper, and feeling incredibly happy in an unusual manner. Bipolar teens are also likely to engage in risky behavior and tend to be compulsive.

By contrast, bipolar teens who are experiencing a depressive episode might express feelings of worthlessness, loneliness, and depression. They might have little energy or interest to engage in their hobbies and relationships.
If your teen has been exhibiting these symptoms, it’s best to consider bipolar disorder therapy. A mental health professional will conduct a mental health assessment to determine if your teen has bipolar disorder and recommend therapy for treatment.

Unlike borderline personality therapy, the recommended treatment for bipolar disorder is psychotherapy and interpersonal or cognitive behavioral therapy. Also, family-focused therapy is provided to help families enhance their conflict resolution skills and address issues at home.

Although bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness, it is highly manageable through therapy from treatment centers like Teen Depression. They can help teens address its symptoms and equip them with tools to achieve stability. Browse our site to learn more about therapy and other treatment programs like Asperger’s syndrome therapy.

This entry was posted in Mental Health and tagged , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

NOTE: If you suspect that a teenager is at suicide risk, please take immediate action.

For 24/7 suicide support and prevention in the U.S., you may call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at +1-800-273-8255 or dial 911.

If you are not from the U.S., you may visit Suicide.org for more information regarding suicide awareness and support.