The Bipolar Adolescent

The Bipolar Adolescent

Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic-depressive illness, is a mood disorder that affects many more children and adolescents than formerly known. Mania, hypomania, and depression are the general categories of symptoms involved in bipolar disorder. Mania often begins with a sense of heightened energy, an exaggerated optimism, and self-confidence. People in this state of mind can be very impulsive and use poor judgment. They can be excessively irritable and show aggressive behavior. They may have an inflated sense of self-importance and a decreased need for sleep. (Fawcett 38)

There are many subforms of bipolar disorder, and one of the most disabling is mixed or dysphoric mania, in which symptoms of both mania and depression occur simultaneously, or alternate frequently during the same day. The person becomes excitable and agitated as in mania, but also irritable and depressed, feeling great anxiety. The mood swings can last for days, weeks, months, or in some cases, moods may change rapidly alternating with normal periods. Depression is characterized by loss of energy and motivation, feelings of worthlessness, inability to concentrate, and loss of enjoyment in usual activities. The variation in symptoms and in the severity of bipolar disorder in different individuals is one reason for the difficulty in obtaining a proper diagnosis.

Bipolar illness can manifest itself at extremely young ages. Young children with bipolar disorder often develop very early language skills. They sometimes hold imaginary conversations with another person and often experience night terrors. They are often restless and have difficulty falling asleep. Some show severe separation anxiety and are very a...

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...with emotional disorders. The National Clearinghouse on Family Support and Children's Mental Health provides family support, among other services." (Papolos 262-263). The Internet allows rapid access of information and has enabled families to feel less isolated. A connection of support to meet the challenges of living with bipolar disorder is readily available.

For many people with bipolar disorder, the turning point in their life comes when they understand their situation, accept responsibility for their actions, and are willing to work hard to change their lives (Fawcett 223). In order to lead a successful life, one must have a positive mental attitude and strict self discipline.

"Know thyself, and listen to your feelings. The little feeling person inside you is saying, `You matter. You deserve to be heard, and I care to listen.'" - John Gray