Managing the Symptoms of Teen Bipolar Disorder

 

Bipolar Disorder is characterized by the swing of moods between mania and depression. It can be difficult for both a teen as well as his or her family to cope with this illness. The symptoms of this disorder can be tricky and challenging to manage. However, with the right tools and support, it can be done. This article will provide a clear description of the typical symptoms of bipolar disorder and the steps to take to manage them. 

There are two distinct experiences that come with Bipolar Disorder – mania and depression. Mania might feel good for a teen who is experiencing it because it can sometimes come with great creativity, wonderful insights, brilliant ideas, and feelings of invincibility. At the same time, mania can feel uncomfortable. Here are some additional symptoms of mania that can make it an uneasy experience:

·         Irritability

·         Intensity

·         Dangerous choices

·         Risky behavior with little awareness of any potential consequences

·         Belief in doing well might keep a teen from taking their medication

A teen who is manic might max out his parent's credit card, have unprotected sex with someone he or she hardly knows, or go gambling and bet his or her entire savings at the casino. Mania might at the surface seem like it's a version of happiness, but it's a mood that comes with significant risks. 

At some point, a teen with Bipolar Disorder will swing to the other side of the spectrum and experience depression. Bipolar disorder (bi meaning two) is characterized by the swing of moods between mania and depression, moving between both poles. An episode of depression can come with the following symptoms:

·         Lasting sad, anxious, or empty mood

·         Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism

·         Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness

·         Loss of interest or pleasure in activities

·         Loss of interest in sexual activity

·         Decreased energy or fatigue

·         Difficulty making decisions, concentrating or focusing

·         Difficulty in memory

·         Restlessness or irritability

·         Oversleeping

·         Sudden weight gain or loss

·         Suicidal ideation

In order to best manage these experiences, there are some relied upon treatment methods that have been successful over time. The cycles between mania and depression can continue to worsen if not treated. And the swing between both these states can be incredibly uncomfortable and unsafe. Typically, treatment of Bipolar Disorder includes minimizing mood swings through the use of medication and therapy. Typical forms of treatment might include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, life skills training, psycho-education, and hospitalization, if necessary. When medication is combined with therapy, there is a greater chance of maintaining mental health and managing the symptoms of Bipolar Disorder.

If you're a teen experiencing the symptoms of Bipolar Disorder or if you haven't told an adult about your experience, talk to a parent, teacher, or school counselor about what's going on. The sooner you can get support for yourself, the better.