Living with teenagers is full of drama on a good day. Between the hormonal changes and peer pressure, it can be challenging to tell if their highs and lows are in the normal range or the sign of something more severe.
Perhaps you are seeing extreme anger, hyperactivity, or heart-breaking crying jags. Will they grow out of it or should you worry about the onset of bipolar disorder? After all, it tends to show up in the late teens and early years of adulthood.
The Signs of Bipolar Disorder
Usually, the biggest warning signs are extreme mood swings, known as mania. A teen may be buzzing around the house for a day, then crash and sleep for a prolonged period of time, waking up irritable and inconsolable.
Beware of these symptoms:
- Short tempers
- Babbling about various topics, bouncing from one to another
- Unfocused on homework or chores.
- Overtired but not sleeping
- Giddy silliness
- Erratic driving, such as taking risks
- Compulsively shopping or playing video games
- Embracing their sexuality in an unhealthy way
- Statements that they feel worthless, hollow, or guilty
- Depression
- Indecision
- Avoiding friends
- Change in eating patterns
- Talk of death or suicide
Bipolar disorder can arise from a traumatic event or a genetic trait. Due to its confusing nature, it can lead teens to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol, participate in risky activities, cause hyperactivity, and to experience other mental health disorders, such as panic attacks, anxiety, and PTSD.
Teens with bipolar disorder may also experience other disorders and behavioral problems. These can overlap with mood episodes. To stop the erratic nature of their lives, they may consider suicide. While bipolar disorder cannot be cured, it can be managed with treatment.
First, you need to determine if your teenager has this disorder. Your family doctor can do a physical exam, lab tests, and a probing interview. Usually, he or she will rule out other causes, such as hyperthyroidism, and reach a conclusion from there. Your child may be referred to a psychiatrist to determine the severity of the illness.
How Do You Treat Bipolar Disorder?
If a diagnosis is confirmed, then it will take new habits and daily routines to keep your teen’s moods in check.
Therapy
Talking with a therapist can help manage the symptoms, express their feelings, and improve relationships with loved ones. It is vital to make sure your teen does not get stressed about this revelation and can look forward to a future that won’t be derailed by this disorder.
A therapist can teach him or her how to cope with the highs and lows, listening to physical cues and negative thoughts to rein them in before their days get out of control. Learning these coping skills will also prevent arguments due to short tempers and relaxation techniques to help them decompress and sleep.
Medication
Mood stabilizers and atypical antipsychotics can treat bipolar disorder but begin with small doses and increase them if needed. Make sure your child understands what they are taking and why then ensure they follow the instructions carefully.
They should be fully aware of any side effects, so there are no surprises. The whole family needs to be informed of what over-the-counter drugs can interfere with the prescription, so everyone takes preventative measures.
Family Dynamics
Just like knowing the medication risks, every family member should learn about bipolar disorder and how to cope with it. Even though your teenager may test your patience more than usual, be kind and patient and make sure other siblings are too. Make it a team project to support the diagnosed person through this journey.
Together, the family can track moods and symptoms, especially if your teen is not self-aware. This information can be vital for visits with a psychiatrist or therapist. Keep everyone on a routine so there are fewer triggers for manic episodes. Meals and bedtimes should be consistent, with time for friends and exercise to provide social and physical stimulation.
Make sure your teen can talk about the symptoms showing up on a given day. By not judging them, you are making them more comfortable about this being part of their life. Listen attentively and express your love and support, no matter what.
At school, ask for an individualized education plan to accommodate the disorder. It will help educators to better plan lessons and support your child in the classroom and increase the odds of scholastic success.
Turn to a support group if you need one, for your teen or other family members. This is new and you may find it helpful to talk with others who have already been through this.
If you think your teen might have bipolar disorder, talk to their doctor right away. The sooner your teen starts treatment, the sooner they can start to manage their symptoms. While it may be scary at first, it is better to know what is happening and to deal with it as best you can.
Reference: https://www.healthline.com/health/bipolar-disorder/bipolar-disorder-in-teens
