Bipolar disorder can disrupt your teen’s emotional balance. To try and restore balance and find a more stable middle ground, treatment typically involves a combination of therapy and medication. Medication for bipolar disorder can be safe and effective.
If your teen has bipolar disorder—or you think they may—contact Family First Adolescent Services for support. Our programming offers the benefit of small group therapy and a small client-to-staff ratio, so your child will receive personalized attention and care. To learn more about teen bipolar disorder treatment at our center in Palm Beach Gardens, FL, reach out at 888.904.5947 today.
The Ups and Downs of Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that used to be referred to as manic depression. It is characterized by intense emotional highs and lows or manic episodes and depressive episodes. However, there are different types of bipolar disorder, and some only involve manic episodes, while others include hypomanic episodes, which are a less severe form of mania.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
A teen with bipolar disorder might experience manic, hypomanic, or depressive episodes or a combination. Here are symptoms to look for in each type of episode:
Manic Episodes
Teens experiencing mania might show the following symptoms:
- High energy and activity levels
- Extreme happiness or elation
- Racing thoughts
- Impulsivity
- Risk-taking behaviors
- Less need for sleep
A hypomanic episode would also involve manic symptoms but to a lesser degree.
Depressive Episodes
Symptoms of depressive episodes in teens may include:
- Feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- Low energy
- Changes in appetite
- Weight fluctuations
- Loss of interest in activities
- Thoughts of death or suicide
The above symptoms can also indicate depression, but when combined with manic or hypomanic episodes, a diagnosis of bipolar disorder may be more likely.
Types of Medication Used to Treat Teen Bipolar Disorder
Treatment for bipolar disorder in teens usually involves a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. There are several types of medication that can be safely prescribed to young people with bipolar disorder:
Mood Stabilizers
Since drastic emotional shifts are one of the most disruptive symptoms of bipolar disorder, medical providers often prescribe mood-stabilizing medications. Some examples of mood stabilizers prescribed for bipolar disorder are lithium and valproate (Depakene).
Antidepressants
Antidepressants may be prescribed to address the depressive episodes that may be part of bipolar disorder. These are sometimes prescribed alongside mood stabilizers. Some antidepressants used for bipolar disorder include citalopram (Celexa) and fluoxetine (Prozac).
Antipsychotics
Antipsychotics are sometimes used to treat manic episodes in bipolar disorder. These can include risperidone (Risperdal), aripiprazole (Abilify), and lumateperone (Caplyta).
Determining the best medication regimen depends on the needs of your teen. There is no single medication that is right for every person with this condition. To help determine the appropriate medication for your teen, it is important to have them assessed by a medical professional. Keep in mind that it can take time to find the right fit. Help your child keep track of their symptoms and any side effects when starting a new medication. This information will help your provider know whether to make adjustments in the dosage or if a change of medication is needed.
Get Help for Teen Bipolar Disorder at Family First Adolescent Services
If your teen is living with bipolar disorder, it can significantly impact their daily life, school performance, and relationships. Recognizing the signs and helping them get the appropriate treatment will enable them to manage their symptoms and lead a more fulfilling life. Family First Adolescent Services offers treatment for bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions. Reach out online today or at 888.904.5947 to find the best path forward for your teen.