Does My Teen Have Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a serious mental health condition that can cause extreme mood swings in children and teens. These mood swings include periods of extreme highs (mania or hypomania) and depressive episodes. If your teen is showing signs of mood swings that seem beyond typical teenage behavior, it could be an indication of bipolar disorder. As a parent or caregiver, understanding the symptoms, risk factors, and available treatments is crucial in providing the right support for your child. 

What Is Bipolar Disorder in Teens?

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder characterized by alternating periods of extreme mood swings. It’s not just about having "mood swings" like most teens experience, but more severe fluctuations that can significantly impact their daily lives, relationships, and overall mental health. These mood swings include episodes of mania or hypomania (extreme highs) and depression (extreme lows).

While both Bipolar I and Bipolar II disorders are recognized, Bipolar II typically involves hypomania (a less severe form of mania) and depressive episodes, while Bipolar I involves more extreme manic episodes. It’s important to note that the disorder may have a genetic component, and a family member with a history of bipolar disorder can increase the risk for teens.

What Are Signs & Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder in Teens?

The symptoms of bipolar disorder can vary widely and can sometimes be mistaken for normal teenage behavior. However, if mood swings seem unusually intense or prolonged, it might be time to seek a professional evaluation.

Symptoms of a manic or hypomanic episode can include:

• Extreme highs: Periods of unusually elevated mood, energy, and irritability. Your teen may talk faster than usual, feel overly confident, or seem unusually energetic.
• Impulsive behavior: Engaging in risky or reckless behaviors, such as spending large amounts of money, driving recklessly, or engaging in inappropriate sexual activity.
• Reduced need for sleep: A teen with mania or hypomania may feel rested with little to no sleep and still be highly energetic.
• Grandiosity: Overestimating abilities or feeling invincible, often leading to risky or unrealistic decisions.

Symptoms of a depressive episode may include:

• Feelings of sadness or hopelessness: The teen may feel overwhelmed by sadness or guilt.
• Withdrawal from activities: A marked loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, such as hobbies or socializing with friends.
• Sleep and appetite changes: Either sleeping too much or experiencing insomnia, as well as significant weight loss or gain.
• Suicidal thoughts or self-harm: This is a serious symptom of depression in teens with bipolar disorder. If you notice signs of suicidal thoughts or behavior, immediate action is needed.

How Do You Diagnose Bipolar Disorder in Teens?

Diagnosing bipolar disorder in teens can be challenging because many of the symptoms overlap with other conditions, such as major depression, anxiety disorders, or even ADHD. A mental health professional will conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include a(n):

• Detailed interview with the teen and their family to understand mood patterns, behaviors, and any family history of mental illness.
• Physical examination to rule out other medical conditions that might cause similar symptoms. 
• Psychological evaluation, which can include questionnaires or assessments to assess mood swings, behavior patterns, and emotional states. 
• Assessment for other possible mental health conditions, such as substance abuse or eating disorders, which can sometimes occur alongside bipolar disorder.

The goal is to understand the full range of your teen’s mental health, including mood swings, risk factors, and any co-occurring conditions.

How Do You Treat Bipolar Disorder in Teens?

Bipolar disorder is a chronic health condition that requires long-term management. Treatment plans for teens with bipolar disorder usually combine medication and therapy.

Medication

The most common treatment for bipolar disorder in teens involves mood stabilizers, such as lithium, which can help reduce the intensity and frequency of mood swings. In some cases, antidepressants may be used to manage depressive episodes, but these are often prescribed with caution due to the potential for triggering manic episodes.

Talk therapy

In addition to medication, talk therapy (also known as psychotherapy) is often a critical component of treatment. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help teens develop coping strategies for managing stress, navigating difficult emotions, and understanding their behavior patterns. Family therapy can also be helpful to improve communication and provide support for the entire family.

Holistic Self-Care 

Ensuring your teen takes care of themselves, body and mind is crucial for modulating their mood and overall mental health. Foundational factors, including nutrition, sleep, exercise and time in nature and the sun are all impactful for regulating mental health, and particularly mood. 

Regular follow-ups

A well-coordinated treatment plan should include regular check-ins with mental health professionals, who can adjust medications and therapy strategies as needed to ensure that your teen’s symptoms are managed effectively.

Parent Tips for Teens with Bipolar Disorder

Supporting a teen with bipolar disorder requires patience, understanding, and a consistent approach to care. Here are some tips for parents and caregivers:

1. Educate yourself: Understanding bipolar disorder and its symptoms will help you better support your teen. Stay informed about the signs of mood swings and how to react appropriately.
2. Create a structured routine: Structure can provide stability for teens with bipolar disorder. Regular sleep schedules, healthy meals, and a consistent daily routine can help reduce stress.
3. Encourage open communication: Maintain an open and non-judgmental line of communication with your teen. Encourage them to share their feelings, especially if they experience any symptoms of depression or mania.
4. Be mindful of triggers: Certain factors, like stress, lack of sleep, or substance use, can trigger episodes of mania or depression. Help your teen identify and avoid potential triggers.
5. Take care of yourself: Supporting a teen with bipolar disorder can be emotionally and physically taxing. Make sure you are seeking support for yourself, whether through counseling, support groups, or reaching out to a therapist 

When Should You Seek Professional Help for Bipolar Disorder in Teens?

Bipolar disorder can be challenging to manage, especially for teens, as their emotional and psychological development is still ongoing. It’s essential to seek professional help if your teen exhibits any of the following signs:

• Extreme mood swings: Sudden shifts between feeling overly happy and energetic (mania) to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or irritability (depression).
• Difficulty functioning in daily life: Struggling at school, in social situations, or maintaining friendships.
• Impulsive or risky behavior: Acting without thinking, such as reckless driving, spending sprees, or risky sexual behavior.
• Changes in sleep and appetite: Severe disruptions to their sleep patterns or eating habits.
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide: If your teen mentions or expresses thoughts about harming themselves or others, immediate intervention is necessary.

If any of these signs are present, it’s important to seek help from a professional to evaluate and guide your teen through the appropriate treatment options.

Where Can I Get More Help

Getting professional help is essential for managing bipolar disorder in teens. You can reach out to licensed therapists, psychiatrists, or counselors who specialize in adolescent mental health. It's critical to find a provider who can offer a combination of therapy, education, and possibly medication to support both the teen and their family through this challenging time.

Next Steps

If your teen is experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder, it’s crucial to get the right support as early as possible to prevent further emotional distress or potential complications. Don't hesitate to seek help from a licensed mental health professional.

For personalized, professional care, consider scheduling a free consultation with a licensed therapist at Handspring Health. They can help guide you and your teen toward effective treatment options.