Bipolar Disorder in Teens: Signs, Diagnosis & Treatment
Imagine feeling like you’re on a roller coaster, but the highs and lows come from deep inside you and often without warning. For the 2.9% of American teens and young adults with bipolar disorder, this can be an everyday reality.
During the already challenging teenage years, bipolar disorder adds a unique layer of complexity—for teens navigating friendships, school, and self-discovery, these mood shifts can feel overwhelming.
This blog breaks down the age-old question, “what is bipolar disorder?”, explores how it shows up in young people, and looks at bipolar disorder treatment for teens that provide both stability and hope.
At Mission Prep, our inpatient and residential programs are designed with young people in mind, creating a safe, supportive space where they can learn to manage their symptoms and build a solid foundation for a bright future. With the right tools and support, teenagers with bipolar disorder can embrace a fulfilling life, equipped to face whatever comes their way.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
What is bipolar disorder? It’s a mental health condition characterized by intense mood swings, transitioning between high-energy “up” moods (known as mania or hypomania) and deep, often overwhelming lows (depression).
This bipolar definition for teens highlights that these mood shifts are more extreme than the typical ups and downs many young people experience, making even basic daily life challenging.
For teens, bipolar disorder can directly impact everything from keeping up with schoolwork to maintaining friendships and family dynamics. While it’s more common than many realize and can feel isolating, bipolar disorder is manageable with the right support.
A professional diagnosis is an important step for understanding these mood swings and finding effective treatments, empowering teens to regain control and lead happier lives.
Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder in Youth:
Recognizing bipolar symptoms in teens can feel a bit tricky, since mood swings and changes in behavior are often part of growing up. However, it’s important to know that the bipolar mood swings in youth go far beyond typical teenage ups and downs.
Here are the most common signs of bipolar disorder in teenagers you should know. These signs typically fall into two categories—manic episodes and depressive episodes—each with distinct characteristics:
- Bursts of high energy and restlessness
- Feeling overly happy or euphoric
- Engaging in risky behaviors without thinking of the consequences
- Racing thoughts and talking quickly
- Difficulty focusing or staying on task
- Constant feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- Fatigue or low energy, even after resting
- Loss of interest in activities they usually enjoy
- Difficulty concentrating and completing tasks
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns (too much or too little)
In addition to these, teens may also show other signs such as increased irritability, impulsiveness, and intense, unpredictable mood swings. These symptoms can have detrimental effects on school, friendships, and daily routines, so recognizing them early and reaching out for support is key to preventing bigger issues down the line.
Types of Bipolar Disorder in Young People:
When discussing types of bipolar disorder in young people, it’s crucial to recognize that not all forms are the same. Each type has its unique symptoms, and understanding these differences can help in identifying what might be happening and how to find the best treatment.
Here’s a breakdown of the main types of bipolar disorder you might encounter:
Bipolar I Disorder
This is the most recognized form, characterized by at least one manic episode. During this episode, teens may experience high energy, elevated moods, and engage in risky behaviors. This manic phase is usually followed by a depressive episode, where they may feel extremely low, fatigued, and unmotivated. The intense mood swings in Bipolar I can make daily life challenging.
Bipolar II Disorder
In the bipolar 1 vs bipolar 2 for youth discussion, the key difference lies in the severity of the manic episodes. Teens with Bipolar II still experience mood swings, but instead of full-blown mania, they undergo hypomania—a milder elevation in mood and energy. While hypomanic episodes are still disruptive, they lack the intense effects of a manic episode. Like Bipolar I, debilitating depressive episodes are still part of the cycle and can significantly affect a teen’s emotional well-being.
Cyclothymic Disorder
This type is less severe but still disruptive. Cyclothymic disorder in teens involves frequent mood swings between mild depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes. While the symptoms are not as extreme as in Bipolar I or II, the rapid changes in mood can still be confusing and challenging to navigate, resembling the emotional rollercoaster of bipolar disorder but without the full-blown episodes.
Other Specified and Unspecified Bipolar Disorders
These categories serve as a “catch-all” for any cases of bipolar disorder that don’t fit neatly into the definitions of Bipolar I, Bipolar II, or cyclothymic disorder. They may present symptoms similar to the other types but do not meet all the criteria for the main categories.
Grasping the different types of bipolar disorder is crucial to understanding how they affect young people.
Bipolar I is characterized by dramatic mood swings, while Bipolar II presents subtler but still difficult mood changes. Then there’s cyclothymic disorder, known for frequent ups and downs. Each type needs a unique treatment and care plan.
If you or someone you know is facing these challenges, getting a proper diagnosis is key to finding the right support.
Diagnosing Bipolar Disorder in Teens and Young Adults:
Diagnosing bipolar disorder in teens and young adults can be a bit tricky, but it’s an important step toward getting the right support.
The process typically starts with a psychiatric evaluation, where a mental health professional will ask about the teen’s mood swings, behaviors, and overall mental health. They’ll also take a look at the personal history, including any family history of mental health conditions (since bipolar disorder can sometimes run in families).
A physical exam may also be done to rule out other health issues that could be affecting mood.
Mood tracking is another crucial part of the process—keeping a journal of moods, sleep patterns, and any noticeable shifts can help professionals pinpoint the problem.
When it comes to bipolar screening for teens, the importance of an early intervention cannot be overstated. An early diagnosis means they can begin receiving the right treatment before symptoms cause (more) disruption in their lives. Understanding how to diagnose bipolar disorder in young adults is important no matter if you work in the medical field or not.
Types of Bipolar Disorder Treatments
When it comes to bipolar disorder treatment for teens and young adults, there’s truly a range of options available to help manage this complex condition.
While outpatient therapy and medication are common strategies, sometimes the intensity of symptoms might call for more intensive support, like inpatient treatment for bipolar disorder in youth or residential treatment for bipolar disorder in teens specifically designed for youth.
These environments offer a structured and supportive setting where young individuals can focus on their healing journey away from the stresses of everyday life.
Inpatient treatment provides immediate psychiatric care with 24-hour supervision, making sure they receive around-the-clock support and guidance.
Similarly, residential treatments provide a nurturing and therapeutic community where teens can face their challenges head-on, supported by skilled mental health professionals. These programs are truly invaluable for young people seeking an in-depth and holistic approach to managing their bipolar disorder.
Teen Bipolar Disorder Treatment Options
Addressing bipolar disorder treatment for teens is a complex journey that requires a personalized touch. Understanding the distinct hurdles faced by young individuals, treatment plans are thoughtfully designed to meet their unique needs. A key ingredient in effectively managing bipolar disorder is the combination of therapy and medication, working together to smooth out mood swings and tackle symptoms head-on.
In some instances, inpatient treatment for bipolar disorder in youth may be necessary, offering an intensive support system within a structured environment. On the other hand, residential treatment for bipolar disorder in teens creates a community atmosphere, allowing young adults to build meaningful relationships while gaining those essential skills for ongoing management.
Together, these tailored bipolar disorder treatment options for young adults, bolstered by robust support networks, pave the way for adolescents and young adults to flourish beyond their diagnosis.
Let’s explore a few key elements for each treatment:
Inpatient Care for Young People with Bipolar Disorder
When it comes to intensive interventions, inpatient care is a lifeline for young people battling bipolar disorder.
These programs offer around-the-clock support in a structured environment, where teens can receive constant monitoring and care. One main focus of inpatient care is managing crises and stabilizing situations, so teens can quickly get the medical and psychiatric help they need during critical times.
It’s not just about getting through the crisis; it’s about empowering these teens with coping strategies for long-term success. In this encouraging, supportive environment, they can directly address their symptoms while having a safety net to help them adjust their emotions and behaviors.
Residential Programs for Teens with Bipolar Disorder
Residential treatment programs are an effective alternative to inpatient care, especially for young people who would benefit more from a gradual, longer-term recovery process.
Unlike the more intensive inpatient settings, residential programs offer a community-based approach, emphasizing life skills, therapy, and peer support. These programs are designed to build resilience over time, focusing not just on immediate symptom management but also on long-term recovery and reintegration into everyday life.
Residential care offers a supportive environment for teens to improve their social skills. They can participate in individual and group therapy, as well as engage in shared activities. This approach helps them better understand their disorder while simultaneously building a sense of belonging and friendship with their peers, something priceless for managing the challenges of bipolar disorder.
Medications for Bipolar Disorder in Young Adults
When it comes to treating bipolar disorder in teens and young adults, medication can be a key part of managing symptoms.
It’s crucial to remember that finding the right medication plan requires a professional evaluation. A psychiatrist will assess and prescribe based on the unique needs of each person, because medications for bipolar disorder can affect everyone a little differently.
Types of Medications Used for Bipolar Disorder Treatment:
- Mood Stabilizers: These are often the foundation of treatment for bipolar disorder. They help balance mood by reducing the frequency and intensity of mood swings, keeping the highs and lows more manageable. Lithium is one of the most commonly known mood stabilizers, but certain anticonvulsants, like valproate, can also be used to stabilize mood.
- Antipsychotic Medications: Sometimes, especially during intense manic or depressive episodes, a psychiatrist may prescribe antipsychotic medications. These are helpful for calming severe symptoms and can also play a role in maintaining a balanced mood when needed.
- Antidepressants: Treating depressive episodes in bipolar disorder can be tricky. Antidepressants might seem like a natural solution, but they need to be prescribed with care. In some cases, antidepressants can trigger manic episodes if they aren’t paired with a mood stabilizer. This is why they’re always prescribed thoughtfully, with careful monitoring.
Medication isn’t a one-size-fits-all, especially when it comes to mental health. Regular check-ins with a psychiatrist are important to seeing how well the medications are working, managing any side effects, and making adjustments as needed.
Therapeutic Approaches for Youth with Bipolar Disorder
Therapy can make a big difference for young people dealing with bipolar disorder. Different therapeutic approaches can give teens and young adults the tools they need to understand and manage their condition.
Let’s look at a few of the most common therapies that focus on developing coping strategies, building healthy routines, and creating a strong support system.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a go-to therapy for bipolar disorder and helps young people identify and shift negative thought patterns. It’s all about learning how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected—and how to change the ones that aren’t helpful. CBT can help them better manage their moods and recognize early warning signs.
Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT)
This type of therapy focuses on maintaining regular daily routines, especially around sleep, meals, and other activities. For teens with bipolar disorder, keeping a consistent schedule can help prevent mood episodes. IPSRT also helps them build healthy relationships, which are incredibly important during this time of life.
Family Therapy
Bipolar disorder doesn’t just affect the person experiencing it—it can impact the whole family. Family therapy gives everyone a chance to learn more about the disorder, develop better communication skills, and understand how they can support each other. It can really help families feel more connected and prepared.
Support Groups
Sometimes, just knowing you’re not alone can make a huge difference. Support groups bring together young people with similar experiences so they can share insights, offer advice, and lend support to one another. Many find it’s helpful to connect with others who truly understand what they’re going through.
These therapeutic approaches give young people and their families practical ways to handle bipolar disorder and build a strong foundation for managing it together.
When to Seek Help for Teens with Bipolar Disorder
Signs to watch for include:
- Extreme mood swings
- Episodes of intense sadness or energy that last for days
- Behaviors that feel out of character or hard to control
Remember, it’s not just about one tough day; it’s when these patterns start affecting day-to-day life that professional support may be necessary.
Getting bipolar disorder help doesn’t mean going through it alone. Our treatment centers offer resources tailored to young people, and our hotline is here to provide support whenever it’s needed. It’s all about helping teens and their families find the right path to managing this condition together.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Bipolar Disorder in Youth
Here are answers to some FAQs about bipolar disorder in teens and young adults. Whether you’re wondering about causes, triggers, or ways to help, we’ve got you covered.
Yes, bipolar disorder does have a genetic component. This means that if a close family member has bipolar disorder, there’s a higher chance of it appearing in another family member. But genetics are just one part of the picture—environmental factors can also play a role.
Bipolar episodes can be triggered by several things, like high-stress situations, changes in sleep patterns, and even seasonal changes. Learning to identify triggers through therapy can help in managing and potentially reducing the frequency of episodes.
Currently, there’s no cure for bipolar disorder, but it can be effectively managed. With the right combination of medication, therapy, and support, many young people with bipolar disorder lead balanced and fulfilling lives.
Family members can play a huge role by learning about bipolar disorder, being patient, and offering support. Attending therapy sessions or family support groups together can also make a positive difference in understanding and managing the condition.
If you have more questions or need guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to provide information, resources, and support every step of the way.
