Interventions for Teenagers With Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder affects children, teens and adults with episodes of manic or depression. Intervention through professional counseling, medication, electroconvulsive therapy or support groups is used for treating bipolar disorder in adolescents. Understanding the cause, recognizing symptoms and being educated on forms of intervention help teens to be successful in living with bipolar disorder.

Professional Counseling

Types of counseling are family therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, problem-solving therapy and interpersonal therapy. These are most effective when the teen is also using prescription medications.

Mood Stabalizing Medication

Mood stabilizing medication works to create a chemical balance in the brain. Types of medications are lithium, Depakote, Lamictal and Tegretol.

Anti-psychotic Medication

Anti-psychotic medications, such as Abilify or Risperdal, work to help bipolar patients who are experiencing manic episodes.

Selective Seratonin Reuptake Inhibitors

When there is an occurrence of depression, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, like Prozac, are prescribed by a doctor.

Electroconvulsive Therapy

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is used in adolescents only when other forms of intervention are not successful. ECT is performed by a doctor and involves using a mild electric shock to the brain to change its chemistry.

Support Group

Support groups give teens the opportunity to interact with others who are bipolar. Meeting and talking with peers gives adolescents another way to work through a depressive cycle.

References

• American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry: Bipolar Disorder in Teens