A Phase vs. Depression

If your teen is exhibiting any of the above behaviors, and you also notice them to be gaining or losing a considerable amount of weight, or instead of listening to music you find them sleeping most of the day, you find their grades slipping or their attitudes changing, you might have valid concerns. With adolescent bipolar disorder, a teen may lose interest in things that have previously brought them pleasure. This is always a concern, because suicide is a very common factor of depression and adolescent bipolar disorder.

Unexpected Highs

That said, a teen who suddenly emerges out of their solitary cocoon with a burst of energy, who is running around trying to get things done, is talking incessantly and excitedly, and is not slowing down or getting tired no matter how long they’ve been awake, may be experiencing a manic “high,” symptomatic of adolescent bipolar disorder.

It is not always easy getting an adolescent to a doctor or mental health professional against their will; in some cases, inpatient evaluation may be required. If there are concerns about mood disorders and your teen, your first course of action is to contact their doctor for advice and recommendations.