What is is bipolar disorder?
Everything you need to know about bipolar disorder in teens and young adults, including what it is, signs and symptoms, causes and risk factors, screening and diagnosis, and treatment and recovery.
| What is bipolar disorder | Signs & symptoms of bipolar disorder | Causes & risk factors for bipolar disorder | Screening & diagnosis for bipolar disorder | Treatment & recovery from bipolar disorder | Bipolar disorder coping tips |
What is bipolar disorder? How common is it?
Bipolar disorder is a type of mood disorder, or a condition affecting a person’s emotions and moods like depression, that is most often characterized by dramatic shifts in a person’s moods, emotions, energy, interactions, and ability to think clearly. While the average age for receiving a diagnosis of bipolar disorder is 25 years, it can occur earlier, with an estimated 2.9% of people between the ages of 13 to 18 receiving this diagnosis.
Most of us, especially during our teenage years, are at least a little bit familiar with having changes in our moods or having intense reactions to things. As we go through puberty, we often experience periods of increased irritability and moodiness, frequent frustration, and intense sadness or anger. This is a normal part of the hormonal changes that are happening as our brain rapidly matures.
Sometimes, however, extreme changes in our moods or rapidly changing emotional reactions can be a signal of a mental health condition like bipolar disorder—particularly if these extreme responses don’t have a clear trigger. Unlike typical mood swings, “episodes” of bipolar disorder, or the period of time during which symptoms of bipolar disorder are heightened and more intense, can last for several weeks or longer.
Historically referred to as “manic-depressive disorder” or “manic depression,” bipolar disorder is usually a chronic condition, meaning, in this case, that symptoms might occur throughout a lifetime (although these can be managed with a treatment plan). While there is no magic cure for bipolar disorder, it is treatable. With the right treatment plan including therapy, medication, and self-care strategies, individuals living with bipolar disorder can manage and control their symptoms and lead the life they want. If you believe you or someone in your life is experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder, it’s important to seek support as soon as you can.
*Note: In some cases, episodes of bipolar disorder can include extreme bouts of depression and can cause a person to have thoughts about death, dying or suicide. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please text or call 988. Your life matters 💛. Our website is not a resource for life-threatening situations and is not monitored 24/7
Watch this video created by the National Alliance on Mental Illness for a quick overview of what bipolar disorder is and what it might feel like. Tell Me About Bipolar Disorder
“I found having a relationship with bipolar and myself, it’s going to be there… I’m just making it my friend now. I think I needed to go through that to be who I am and I am going to keep going through it, but I’m really happy. I’m at peace. I’m angry. I’m sad. I’m competent. I’m full of doubt. I’m a work in progress. I am enough.”
Signs & symptoms of bipolar disorder
Like with all mental health conditions, the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder can look and feel very different to each person. Teens and young adults living with bipolar disorders can experience symptoms that vary in pattern, severity, and frequency. Typically, there will be some combination or pattern of periods of extreme highs, also known as “manic episodes,” or periods of extreme lows, also known as “depressive episodes.” Each of these types of episodes include a variety of associated symptoms.
There are four types of mood episodes associated with bipolar disorder.
Mania: When experiencing mania, or a “manic episode,” it’s common to feel really good, euphoric even, and have heightened energy or more creativity than is usual for you. You might sleep a lot less than usual, talk a lot faster than usual, and feel all around invincible. While all of these things can make you feel great, manic episodes eventually tend to spiral out of control and lead to reckless behavior. Also, many people experiencing mania lose touch with their typical day-to-day life.
Hypomania: Hypomania is a less intense version of mania. During hypomania, it’s still common to experience heightened mood and energy, but it’s also still possible to manage your typical daily routine. Still, hypomania, like mania, can lead to poor decision-making and commonly either escalates to mania or is followed by a depressive episode.
Bipolar depression: Bipolar depressive episodes are different from depression in a number of ways. While the two can feel similar, bipolar depression is more likely to involve feelings of irritability, guilt, and restlessness in addition to unpredictable mood swings. When experiencing bipolar depression, individuals may sleep a lot, gain weight, and move and speak more slowly than is usual. In more intense cases of bipolar depression, individuals may experience psychosis and be unable to manage their day-to-day life.
Mixed episodes: Mixed episodes of bipolar disorder refer to periods of heightened symptoms that include both mania or hypomania and depression. The combination of higher energy with low moods can increase one’s risk for suicide. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please text or call 988. Your life matters 💛. Our website is not a resource for life-threatening situations and is not monitored 24/7
These different types of mood episodes typically last for 1-2 weeks at a time in teens and young adults, but ultimately they do differ for every person. Specifically, symptoms of mania and hypomania are quite different from symptoms of bipolar depression. Click below for a more comprehensive list for each episode type.
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While symptoms of mania and hypomania are similar, they will be more intense during a “manic episode” versus a “hypomanic episode.” Some of these symptoms may include:
Having a very short temper, having irrational and destructive outbursts
Speaking excited and quickly about a lot of different things and jumping from topic to topic
Being unable to focus
Jumping quickly from task to task or project to project
Not feeling tired despite getting little to no sleep
Feeling euphoric or unusually happy (sometimes without a clear reason)
Acting silly or immature in an unusual or extreme way
Making risky and/or reckless decisions, such as drinking while driving or gambling
Doing compulsive things, such as binge shopping
Becoming overly sexual or sexually active
Thinking of themselves in inflated ways or believing they have superpowers
In some cases, manic and hypomanic symptoms can cloud people’s judgment and cause them to make reckless decisions that put their life at risk. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please text or call 988. Every life matters 💛. Our website is not a resource for life-threatening situations and is not monitored 24/7
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Symptoms of bipolar depression in teens and young adults may include:
Feelings of worthlessness, emptiness, and/or guilt
Feeling very down and sad
Sleeping too much or too little
Having little to no energy
Experiencing stomach aches, headaches, or other unexplained aches and pains
Experiencing increased sensitivity to failure or disapproval
Being unable to concentrate or focus
Being indecisive
Having little to no interest in activities, hobbies, or socializing with friends
Overeating or not eating at all
Thinking about death and suicide
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please text or call 988. Every life matters 💛. Our website is not a resource for life-threatening situations and is not monitored 24/7
Sometimes, it can be difficult to distinguish bipolar disorder from typical teenage emotional and mood swings and from depression. However there are a few signs, or outward signals, that may help indicate bipolar disorder.
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A young person experiencing bipolar disorder will typically:
Have a history of numerous mood swings that are episodic (lasting 1-2 weeks at a time)
Having normal energy despite getting little to no sleep the previous night
Having an increase in agitation, aggression, and anger
Experiencing changes in conversation, including talking fast, switching from topic to topic, not being easily interrupted, and abruptly losing one’s train of thought
Experiencing increased impulsiveness and engaging in risky behavior without considering the consequences
Being more likely to misuse substances
Being more likely to experience suicidal thoughts and attempt suicide
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please text or call 988. Your life matters 💛. Our website is not a resource for life-threatening situations and is not monitored 24/7
Without support and treatment, symptoms of bipolar disorder can worsen. Sometimes, these symptoms can progress to symptoms of psychosis. If you believe you or someone you know may be experiencing signs or symptoms of bipolar disorder or psychosis, the sooner you can get help the better. Check out some of our resources that can help:
Causes of and risk factors for bipolar disorder in teens and young adults
The exact causes of and risk factors for bipolar disorder in teens and young adults are still being explored. However, it is believed that a combination of family history (genes), brain structure, and environmental factors contribute to the development of bipolar disorder. Other medical conditions can also contribute to the development of bipolar disorder.
Family genes: Individuals that have family members that live with bipolar disorder or depression have a higher risk for developing bipolar disorder. Specifically, those with a first-degree relative (parent or sibling) with bipolar disorder have a 10X greater likelihood of developing bipolar disorder. However, this does not mean that every individual with a family history of bipolar disorder will develop bipolar disorder.
Biological differences: While the connection between brain structure and function is still being explored, there has been some evidence that important parts of the brain that help regulate emotions develop differently in young people with bipolar disorder.
Environmental factors: Periods of high stress, such as the loss of a family member, and experiencing or witnessing traumatic events can increase one’s risk for developing bipolar disorder or be a trigger for a first episode.
Screening & diagnosis for bipolar disorder
If you or someone you know has been experiencing signs or symptoms of bipolar disorder, it is probably a good time to seek professional support. To receive a diagnosis of bipolar disorder and begin treatment, you will need to schedule an assessment with a psychiatrist. An assessment involves a series of questions about your family history and recent moods, emotions, and behaviors. For a preview of what this assessment may include, you can visit Mental Health America to take a free mental health screening for bipolar disorder online.
If you receive a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, and you’re worried about what it means, it’s important to remember why diagnoses exist in the first place. At the end of the day, a diagnosis is a label to help health professionals describe a particular group of symptoms and identify the appropriate treatment approach. In the case of bipolar disorder, there are a few different labels that you might hear when discussing a diagnosis with your health professional. These classifications relate to the 4 types of mood episodes described above.
>>> 4 types of bipolar disorder you might hear about when receiving a diagnosis
1.Bipolar I Disorder: mania or mixed episodes
Bipolar I disorder is characterized by at least one manic episode that lasts at least 7 days and may require hospitalization. Typically, these manic episodes are followed by intense bipolar depressive episodes that can last up to two weeks. If these episodes happen simultaneously, it is called a mixed episode.
2. Bipolar II Disorder: hypomania and depression episodes
Bipolar II disorder does not include a manic episode. Instead, Bipolar II is characterized by episodes of hypomania and bipolar depression. While the episodes of hypomania are not as intense as the episodes of mania in Bipolar I, the depressive episodes of Bipolar II can be more intense and last longer.
3. Cyclothymic Disorder (or Cyclothymia): hypomania and mild depression
Cyclothymia is a milder form of bipolar disorder that is characterized by frequent mood swings, also known as “rapid cycling.” In cyclothymia, the highs are consistent with symptoms of hypomania while the lows are more similar to symptoms of mild or moderate depression. In some cases, these swings can last for longer periods of times, sometimes even for two years.
4. Unspecified or other types of bipolar disorder
Sometimes, people can experience symptoms of bipolar disorder that do not fit into the categories listed above. Or, these symptoms may stem from another medical condition, such as substance misuse. In these cases, a doctor may call it “unspecified bipolar disorder”.
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While a psychiatrist is required for a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, it can also be helpful to speak with your primary care provider. In some cases, a physical exam can help rule out physical illnesses that can look and feel like bipolar disorder, such as hyperthyroidism.
At the end of the day, whether or not you receive a diagnosis for bipolar disorder, it’s important to remember that your feelings and experiences are important. Our mental health is a spectrum, and it changes all the time. If you think you would benefit from additional support, whether by practicing self-care strategies, chatting with a peer who gets it, or exploring professional support options. Visit our Resources We Love page to learn more about the various resources available to you.
Hear from Michelle about her journey being diagnosed with and learning to live with bipolar disorder. I'm a 20-year-old student, living with bipolar disorder | Mental Heath Awareness
Treatment for and recovery from bipolar disorder
Let’s be clear: living a normal life with bipolar disorder is possibly, especially if you find the right treatment approach for you. But it does require reaching out for support. Check out our blog for tips for talking to your trusted ally about what’s going on.
Even though bipolar disorder is a chronic, lifelong condition, many people learn to manage their symptoms with the right combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. However, it’s not as simple as waving a wand. Finding the right treatment plan for you can often take time and a few trials and errors. Here are a few things to keep in mind when assessing your treatment options.
Building coping strategies through therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy, family-focused therapy, and psychotherapy have all proven to help individuals improve their coping strategies, grow their support networks, and better manage symptoms and stress.
Managing symptoms via medication: If you’re experiencing bipolar disorder, your doctor may recommend starting medications immediately to help get your symptoms under control. There are different types of medications used to treat bipolar disorder, including mood stabilizers, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may suggest one or a combination to help. However, side effects to medications are common, so it’s important to stay in close contact with your doctor as you find the right medication for you. Learn more about the specific medications used to treat bipolar disorder on the NAMI website.
Potential for therapy + medications: Research shows that individuals with bipolar disorder that took medication and received psychotherapy are more likely to get well faster and more likely to stay well over time.
Sticking with your treatment plan: Often between episodes of bipolar disorder, a person can feel totally fine and normal, leading them to change their treatment routine. They may think they no longer need their medications or therapy, for example. However, it’s important to stick to your treatment plan in order to maintain control over your symptoms and reduce their severity and frequency. If you think you might benefit from a change to your treatment plan, connect with your doctor so they can help you find the best approach for you.
Making lifestyle changes: Incorporating healthy habits and self-care practices into your daily routine can help alleviate symptoms, avoid triggers, and ensure you feel your best.
“Mental illness does not rob you of your right to love yourself as you are. ”
If you’re learning to live with bipolar disorder, here are a few recommendations provided by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) to help you cope.
> Coping with bipolar disorder: Tips from the NIMH
Get treatment and stick with it. Treatment is the best way to start feeling better.
Keep medical and therapy appointments and talk with your health care provider about treatment options.
Take medication as directed.
Structure activities. Keep a routine for eating, sleeping, and exercising.
Try regular, vigorous exercise like jogging, swimming, or bicycling, which can help with depression and anxiety, promote better sleep, and is healthy for your heart and brain.
Keep a life chart to help recognize your mood swings.
Ask for help when trying to stick with your treatment.
Be patient. Improvement takes time. Social support helps.
At the end of the day, bipolar disorder is a lifelong illness. But it doesn’t have to be your life. With the right treatment plan, support network, and self-care strategies in place, you can live the life you want to lead with bipolar disorder. Just remember, wherever you are in your journey with mental health and no matter how you’re feeling, you are not alone. Check out our stories and social media to hear from others who have been there.
If you know someone living with bipolar disorder, check out this video from PsychHub about how you can offer support.
