Bipolar Disorder in Teens: What Parents Should Know

Bipolar disorder, a complicated mood disorder characterized by significant shifts in mood, energy and activity levels, can profoundly impact adolescent life.

It’s important for parents to understand bipolar disorder in teens. Recognizing it early and getting the right treatment can help teens feel better and have a better life.

This article will explore the essential aspects of bipolar disorder in teens, including its signs, causes and available treatments. By being informed, parents can better support their teenager through the challenges of this mental health condition.

Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic-depressive illness, is a brain disorder that leads to unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, concentration and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. These are not the typical ups and downs; the symptoms of bipolar disorder are severe and can result in damaged relationships, poor school performance and even suicide.

Types of bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is typically classified into several types based on the pattern and severity of mood episodes:

• Bipolar I Disorder
• Bipolar II Disorder
• Cyclothymic Disorder

Each type has distinct patterns of mania, hypomania and depression. It’s important to know that teens with bipolar disorder can have times when their mood is intense, but they can also have times when their mood is normal.

It can be hard to tell if a teenager has bipolar disorder, since the signs look similar to other issues that teenagers have. However, there are certain signs that may suggest the presence of bipolar disorder:

Mood changes

• Severe mood swings that are different from their usual mood swings
• Intense happiness or silliness for long periods
• Deep sadness or withdrawal from friends and activities

Behavioral changes

• Rapidly changing energy levels, from extremely active to extremely tired
• Talking fast, changing ideas quickly, or having trouble concentrating
• Taking unnecessary risks or exhibiting reckless behavior
• Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
• Complaining about pain, such as stomachaches and headaches
• Eating too much or too little

Manic episodes

During manic episodes, teens may display:

• Increased energy and agitation
• Exaggerated sense of well-being and self-confidence
• Decreased need for sleep without feeling tired
• More talkative than usual or pressure to keep talking
• Distractibility

Depressive episodes

Conversely, during depressive episodes, teens may experience:

• Persistent sad or irritable mood
• Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
• Significant change in appetite or body weight
• Difficulty sleeping or oversleeping
• Physical agitation or slowing
• Feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt
• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

The exact cause of bipolar disorder is not entirely understood, but research suggests that a combination of factors contribute to the development of this illness.

Genetic factors

Bipolar disorder tends to run in families, indicating a genetic predisposition to the illness. Relatives of a person with bipolar disorder are more likely to develop the condition.

Biological factors

Brain structure and function may also play a role. New technology has shown that people with bipolar disorder have different brains than those without the disorder.

Environmental factors

Stressful life events, such as the death of a loved one, a divorce or financial problems, can trigger a manic or depressive episode in individuals who are genetically predisposed to bipolar disorder.

Effective treatment typically includes a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Treatment is tailored to the individual and often requires ongoing adjustment to find the optimal approach.

Medication

Medications known as mood stabilizers are commonly used to treat bipolar disorder. Antipsychotic medications and, less frequently, antidepressants may also be prescribed. It’s crucial to communicate openly with the healthcare provider about the medication’s effects and any side effects experienced.

Psychotherapy

Therapy can provide support, education and guidance to teens and their families. Therapeutic approaches may include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Family-focused therapy
• Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy
• Psychoeducation

Lifestyle changes and coping strategies

In addition to medication and therapy, healthy lifestyle habits and coping strategies can help manage symptoms:

• Regular sleep patterns
• Consistent routines
• Stress-reducing activities
• Avoidance of caffeine and drugs

Parents play a vital role in supporting their teens through treatment and management of bipolar disorder. Here are some ways parents can help:

Educate yourself and your teen

Learn as much as possible about bipolar disorder. Knowledge is empowering and can help both you and your teen understand the illness better.

Be patient

Managing bipolar disorder is a long-term process. Be patient with the pace of recovery and prepare for possible setbacks.

Communicate openly

Maintain open lines of communication with your teen. Listen to their feelings and concerns without judgment.

Monitor treatment

Stay involved in your teen’s treatment. Encourage them to take medication as prescribed and to attend all therapy sessions.

Create a supportive environment

Foster an environment that is stable, calm and supportive. Structure and routine can help your teen manage their symptoms.

Encourage healthy habits

Encourage your teen to engage in healthy habits such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep.

Bipolar disorder in teens can be a challenging journey for both the teenager and their family. However, with early detection, proper treatment and strong support systems, teens with bipolar disorder can lead fulfilling lives. As a parent, staying informed, involved and supportive is the best strategy to help your teenager navigate the complexities of this mental health condition. Remember, you are not alone, and there are resources and communities available to assist you on this journey.

Located in West Allis, WI, Granite Hills provides essential support for parents navigating bipolar disorder in teens. Our comprehensive services include specialized inpatient and outpatient care designed to address the unique needs of adolescents. Contact us today at 414-667-4800 to learn more about how we can assist your family during this challenging time.

If you or your teen is experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988 or go to the nearest emergency room. For physical health emergencies, call 911 or get to the nearest emergency room.