Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition that can cause significant changes in mood, energy, and behavior. While it is often associated with adults, bipolar disorder can also affect children and teenagers. At Decade2Connect in Denver, CO, we specialize in working with young people with bipolar disorder and their families.
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings that range from high energy and impulsivity to depression and hopelessness. In some cases, young people with bipolar disorder may also experience psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations or delusions.
The exact cause of bipolar disorder is unknown, but it is thought to be the result of genetic, biological, environmental, or psychological factors. Studies suggest that there may be an imbalance in certain brain chemicals or hormones that regulate mood and behavior. The symptoms of bipolar disorder tend to vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe.
Identifying bipolar disorder in young people can be challenging, as many of the symptoms can be mistaken for typical teenage behavior. However, some signs to look out for include:
Extreme mood swings that last for several days or weeks
High energy and impulsivity
Increased risk-taking behavior
Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Changes in appetite or weight
Suicidal thoughts or talking about suicide and wanting to die
Withdrawing from family members or friends
Exhibiting sudden changes in behavior
Having intense emotional outbursts
Displaying an increase in physical aggression
During manic phases, people may be overly active and talk excessively while displaying reckless behavior such as spending sprees or substance abuse. During depressive phases, they may feel hopelessness, guilt, fatigue, or extreme sadness for no apparent reason.
It’s important to note that not everyone with bipolar disorder will experience all the same symptoms; some might only experience milder versions while others have more severe forms of the disorder.
At Decade2Connect, we offer a range of therapy-based treatment options for children and teenagers with bipolar disorder, including:
Family Therapy: A form of therapy that involves the entire family in the treatment process, helping to improve communication and strengthen relationships.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A type of talk therapy that helps children and teenagers identify and challenge negative thought patterns that contribute to their mood swings.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): A form of therapy that focuses on teaching young people coping skills and strategies to manage their emotions and behaviors.
Medication Management: In some cases, medication may be recommended to help manage symptoms of bipolar disorder.
Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for our clients by working hand-in-hand with other healthcare professionals.
Contact us today to learn more about our services for children and teenagers with bipolar disorder. We are here to give you and your family the help and support you need during your journey to recovery and healing.
We support hope and harmony in families.
303-674-6681
connect@decade2connect.org
