Make sure your teen sees his or her healthcare provider for a diagnosis. Symptoms of bipolar disorder, especially in a teen, may look like other problems. Seeing or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations), or believing things that are not true (delusions) Severe, unpredictable mood changes, such as being abnormally happy or silly Very high or euphoric feelings, at times grandiose Very talkative, such as speaking quickly or changing topics a lot Often taking part in high-risk activities that may have harmful results, such as reckless driving, unprotected sex, or alcohol and drug abuse Running away or threats of running away from homeįeelings of anger, hostility, or aggression Loss of interest in activities once enjoyedįrequent bodily complaints, such as headache, stomachache, or extreme tiredness (fatigue) But symptoms may be different for each teen.įeelings of despair, helplessness, and guilt Teens with bipolar disorder often have abnormal mood swings.

What are the symptoms of bipolar disorder in a teen? But girls tend to have more symptoms of depression. The disorder often starts in the teen years or early adulthood. Researchers are still looking for the gene or genes that may cause the disorder. Which teens are at risk for bipolar disorder?Ī teen is at higher risk for bipolar disorder if another family member has it. What causes bipolar disorder in a teen?Įxperts don’t know the exact cause of bipolar disorder. That is why this disorder has two poles or symptoms. These episodes are countered by periods of major depression. A teen may have times of great elation, happiness, elevated mood, or irritability. These mood swings go beyond the day’s normal ups and downs. Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia)Ī teen with bipolar disorder often has extreme mood swings.

Bipolar Disorder in Teens What is bipolar disorder in teens?īipolar disorder is a type of depression.

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