How to Recognize Bipolar Symptoms in a Teenager

Teenagers often veer wildly through energetic and depressed episodes; the mood swings usually come with the territory. This makes it even harder to diagnose bipolar disorder, which can often mask itself as oppositional defiance disorder, conduct disorder, attention deficit disorder, schizophrenia or depression..even drug abuse. Talk about difficult to diagnose. Here are some specific signs to make the parent, friend or teen himself sit up and take notice.

Instructions

• 1

  Realize that the teen may seem to constantly change moods, even within a few hours. Note that the elation (elevated mood) or "high end" of the disorder may often be experiences as agitation or irritability in a teenager, not wild happiness. The grandiosity of feeling, however, in the "mania" episodes may resemble an adult's experience: the feeling that one is connected to a higher power or somehow very elite or important, with important plans that must be carried out exactly as devised.

• 2

  Look for symptoms of less sleep--at least pattern changes--during these highly energetic or "manic" episodes. Notice a lack of judgment, and risk-taking behaviors that could include drugs and alcohol. (Yes, this one can be common for all teenagers.) Pay attention when a teenager behaves markedly out of character.

• 3

  Monitor the downswings or depressions. Does she lose interest in the music or sports or friends she loves? Does he have trouble concentrating?

• 4

  See if she seems tired all the time, or her appetite has changed. Also, question whether he seems to be experiencing hopelessness or worthlessness--a state in which he is terribly self-critical. She may take action on her words in a drastic manner, not just threaten.

• 5

  Take the child to be evaluated by a school psychologist at the school or the family doctor for a proper diagnosis. Bipolar disorder is thought to be a chemical imbalance; treatment is available. Educate yourselves and seek help. Don't criminalize or distort the condition.