Tips for young people
Bipolar
You are not alone if you believe you may have bipolar disorder. Learn more about the disorder and what to do if you have it.
What is bipolar disorder?
When you have bipolar disorder, you can experience intense mood swings that continue for days or even weeks at a time.
The symptoms typically appear in young individuals between the ages of 15 and 19, affect one in 100 people, and start later in adolescence.
Celebrities like Demi Lovato have talked openly about bipolar disease, demonstrating that even if you have it and need treatment, you can live a full life and carry on with the activities you enjoy.
Symptoms
The symptoms of bipolar disorder can come and go – they won’t necessarily be present all the time.
Just because you experience one or more of these symptoms, it doesn’t mean you definitely have bipolar disorder. It’s important to talk to your GP to get a full diagnosis.
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extreme mood swings
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manic episodes, which can involve talking a lot, racing thoughts, over confidence and increased activity
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low mood
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difficulty concentrating
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decreased energy
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sleep problems - feeling like you hardly need sleep or having difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
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reduced appetite
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thoughts of self-harm
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psychosis - if manic, this might consist of beliefs that you have special powers or abilities
Treatment
The first step in treatment is to learn how to manage your mood swings. You might be given an antipsychotic medication or a mood stabiliser, such lithium, during manic episodes.
Following that, you can be given the option of receiving solo, family, or group psychological therapy, which can help with your symptoms and lower your chance of becoming ill again.
Once your mood swings are under control, talking therapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), may also be beneficial. CBT can help you better understand your thoughts and behaviour and encourage you to adopt new ways of thinking.
More information & support
Depression
Anxiety
Suicidal thoughts
Self harm
Get help now
Childline
If you’re under 19 you can confidentially call, chat online or email about any problem big or small.
Sign up for a free Childline locker (real name or email address not needed) to use their free 1-2-1 counsellor chat and email support service.
Can provide a BSL interpreter if you are deaf or hearing-impaired.
Hosts online message boards where you can share your experiences, have fun and get support from other young people in similar situations.
Opening times:
24/7
0800 11 11
Samaritans
Whatever you're going through, you can contact the Samaritans for support. N.B. This is a listening service and does not offer advice or intervention.
Opening times:
24/7
116123
You are not alone...
We can assist you whether you want to learn more about how you're feeling and discover strategies for feeling better or if you want to support someone who is having a hard time.
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