Bipolar disorder in teens: encourage them in these 4 ways

Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that is most often diagnosed during adolescence. This disease causes extreme mood swings. Children may at times fall into a depressive phase (hypomania) for weeks, but then suddenly feel very, very happy (manic phase). Adolescents with this condition must receive proper care, so that their quality of life can be better.

If someone in your family who is a teenager has bipolar disorder, how can you encourage him or her? Check out the following tips.

Causes of bipolar disorder in adolescents

Until now, there is no known exact cause of bipolar disorder in adolescents. Researchers believe that this disorder in the brain is factored in by many things, such as:

Abnormalities in the brain. An imbalance of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) can interfere with the body's system for regulating mood.
Genetic. The risk of bipolar disorder is greater in people who have family members with this condition.
Environment. Bipolar disorder in adolescents can occur due to pressure in the environment, such as the death of a family member, a divorce from a parent, a victim of abuse or violence that causes trauma.

Tips to encourage teens with bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder can affect the quality of life of adolescents later in life. For that, they need the care and support of those around them. Here's how you can encourage a teenager with bipolar disorder.

1. Deepen your knowledge of bipolar disorder

Dealing with teens with bipolar disorder is not easy.

You need to increase your knowledge about this disease by reading books or other accurate information about bipolar disorder.

If necessary, consult a psychologist or psychiatric specialist.

2. Face patiently but still pay attention

Teens with bipolar disorder can feel depressed and super active (mania), which can test your patience in dealing with it.

The key is never to give up and always make sure he feels comfortable and safe with you.

3. Strengthen the inner connection between you and your child

Communication is the key to strengthening your relationship with the teenager at home who has bipolar disorder. You need to listen attentively to how they feel.

This will help you find out how he feels when he feels well, is depressed, or has a manic episode. Your observations can help the therapist or doctor determine the right treatment.

4. Help them to go about their daily activities

Teens with bipolar disorder tend to find it difficult to carry out normal daily routines and often perform dangerous acts.

For that, they need your help in several things, including:

Set a routine medical schedule, take medication, or accompany them on therapy.
Create a daily schedule, such as eating, sleeping, bathing, exercise and other activities.
Help prepare their needs.
Help them socialize with friends and family.