What is
Youth-Onset Bipolar Disorder?

Youth-Onset Bipolar Disorder is a mental health concern that requires multidisciplinary therapeutic support.

What Is It?

Youth-onset bipolar disorder is a mental health condition where children or adolescents experience extreme mood swings, including episodes of mania and depression. These mood changes are more intense and disruptive than typical emotional shifts, affecting behaviour, energy levels, and daily functioning.

Common Experiences

Young people with bipolar disorder may show periods of high energy, rapid speech, irritability, or risky behaviour during manic phases. Depressive episodes can involve sadness, fatigue, low motivation, and withdrawal. These symptoms often fluctuate unpredictably, causing confusion and concern for the child and their family.

How It Can Affect You

Youth-onset bipolar disorder can affect school performance, friendships, and family dynamics. It may lead to misunderstandings or misdiagnosis. Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy and family-focused interventions, helps manage symptoms, improve communication, and teach coping strategies to support emotional stability and resilience.