Bipolar Test for Teens - Parent Test
Co-Occurring Treatment in Florida
Understanding Teenage Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that affects mood regulation, causing extreme shifts between manic and depressive states. While mood swings are common in adolescence, bipolar disorder involves more intense and prolonged episodes that can disrupt a teen’s daily life, relationships, and academic performance.
Manic episodes may lead to excessive energy, impulsivity, and difficulty sleeping, while depressive episodes can cause persistent sadness, fatigue, and social withdrawal.1 These shifts can be confusing for both teens and parents, making it difficult to distinguish between typical emotional changes and a more serious mood disorder.
Early recognition and treatment are essential in helping teens manage their symptoms and develop coping skills for long-term stability. At Resilience Recovery Resources, we provide guidance and support for families navigating adolescent mental health challenges. Our specialized programs address a range of mental health and substance use issues, ensuring that young men receive the comprehensive care they need. To learn more about the conditions we address, visit our What We Treat page.
Teenage Bipolar Test for Parents
This quiz is designed to help parents identify potential signs of bipolar disorder in their teenagers. It is not a diagnostic tool but can help guide you toward seeking professional evaluation if necessary.
What is Bipolar Disorder in Teens?
Types of Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is classified into different types based on the severity and pattern of mood episodes. Understanding these distinctions can help parents and caregivers recognize potential signs in their teenagers and seek appropriate professional support.2
Bipolar I disorder is the most severe form, marked by manic episodes that last at least seven days or require hospitalization due to their intensity.3 These episodes are often followed by depressive episodes that can persist for weeks or months. Teens with Bipolar I may experience drastic changes in mood, energy levels, and decision-making, making it difficult for them to function in daily life.
Bipolar II disorder is characterized by alternating episodes of depression and hypomania, a milder form of mania that does not cause extreme impairment.4 Unlike Bipolar I, hypomanic episodes do not lead to hospitalization, but they can still disrupt a teen’s ability to maintain relationships, school performance, and emotional stability. Teens with Bipolar II may appear highly energetic and productive during hypomanic phases, only to later struggle with deep depressive episodes that affect their motivation and well-being.
Cyclothymic disorder is a less severe but chronic form of bipolar disorder, in which individuals experience frequent mood swings that cycle between depressive and hypomanic states.5 The symptoms do not meet the full criteria for Bipolar I or II, but they still cause emotional instability that can affect daily life. Teens with cyclothymic disorder may seem moody, unpredictable, or overly sensitive to changes in their environment, making it challenging for them to maintain stable relationships and responsibilities.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder in Teens
Identifying bipolar disorder in teens can be difficult because normal adolescent mood swings can sometimes resemble its symptoms. However, bipolar disorder is distinguished by the intensity, duration, and impact of mood shifts on daily life. These changes can significantly affect a teen’s emotional state, thought processes, and behavior.
Signs of a Manic Episode
During a manic episode, a teen may experience extreme euphoria, irritability, or an unusually high level of energy that seems disproportionate to the situation. They may go for extended periods without sleep while feeling highly active and alert.6 Their thoughts may race, causing them to speak rapidly and jump between ideas in a problematic way. Manic episodes can also lead to impulsive and risky behaviors, such as reckless driving, excessive spending, or inappropriate social interactions. Some teens develop an exaggerated sense of self-importance, believing they can accomplish extraordinary achievements without realistic planning or effort.
Signs of a Depressive Episode
Depressive episodes in bipolar disorder can leave a teen feeling persistently sad, hopeless, or emotionally drained. They may lose interest in hobbies, socializing, or activities they once enjoyed. Fatigue and lack of energy become overwhelming, making it challenging to keep up with school, friendships, or daily responsibilities. Sleep disturbances are common, with some teens sleeping excessively while others experience severe insomnia. Feelings of worthlessness and guilt may take over their thoughts, leading to self-criticism and social withdrawal. In severe cases, they may express thoughts of self-harm or suicide, making immediate intervention essential.
If your teen exhibits these behaviors frequently and persistently, completing the Teenage Bipolar Test for Parents below may help assess whether professional evaluation and support are necessary. Early recognition and intervention are key to ensuring they receive the appropriate treatment for long-term stability and well-being.
Treatment & Support at Resilience Recovery Resources
If you suspect your teen may have bipolar disorder, early intervention is essential to improving their long-term well-being. Left untreated, bipolar disorder can lead to academic difficulties, strained relationships, increased risk of substance use, and other mental health challenges. At Resilience Recovery Resources, we specialize in providing structured aftercare and life skills development for adolescent and emerging adult males who are navigating the complexities of mental health and substance use disorders. Our goal is to equip young men with the tools and support to manage their symptoms, build resilience, and lead stable, fulfilling lives.
Our Approach
We take a comprehensive approach to treatment, addressing both mental health and substance use concerns through a combination of evidence-based strategies and holistic support.
Comprehensive Clinical Aftercare – Our structured, evidence-based programming is designed to support young men transitioning from higher levels of care, such as residential treatment or detox. We provide tailored interventions focusing on emotional regulation, self-awareness, and coping strategies for long-term success.
12-Step Recovery Integration – Many of our clients have a history of substance use alongside their mental health challenges. We incorporate 12-step recovery principles to promote accountability, peer support, and a sense of purpose, helping young men maintain long-term sobriety while managing co-occurring disorders.
Leadership Development – Recovery is not just about overcoming challenges; it’s about building a future. We help young men develop leadership skills through structured programming that encourages responsibility, personal growth, and service. Whether through work, volunteering, or peer mentorship, we empower our clients to take ownership of their recovery and forge their path forward.
Family Support – Mental health and addiction impact not only the individual but the entire family. We provide education, guidance, and resources to parents and guardians, helping them understand their teen’s condition and become active participants in their recovery journey. We create a support system that promotes lasting change by fostering stronger family dynamics.
Who We Help
We work with adolescent males between the ages of 14 and 17 and young adult males between 18 and 28 who are recovering from substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders, including bipolar disorder. Our clients have completed detox or a residential treatment program and are ready for structured aftercare.
Since we are an out-of-network provider, we offer flexible private pay options for families seeking high-quality, individualized care. If you want additional support for your teen, we encourage you to contact us today for a consultation and learn how our program can help.
Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment at Resilience Recovery
If your teen is experiencing mood instability, struggling with substance use, or dealing with co-occurring mental health disorders, Resilience Recovery Resources provides the specialized support they need. Our program is designed to help adolescent and young adult males navigate the challenges of mental health and addiction, equipping them with the tools to build a stable and fulfilling future.
Early intervention and structured aftercare can make a significant difference in a young person’s recovery journey. Through evidence-based clinical support, life skills development, and family involvement, we create an environment that fosters growth, resilience, and long-term success.
Contact us today to learn more about how our adolescent and young adult support programs can provide the guidance and treatment your teen needs.
References:
- American Psychiatric Association. (n.d.). What are bipolar disorders? Retrieved from https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/bipolar-disorders/what-are-bipolar-disorders
- Child Mind Institute. (n.d.). Identifying mania in kids and teens. Retrieved from https://childmind.org/article/identifying-mania-in-kids-and-teens/
- National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Bipolar disorder. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/bipolar-disorder
- National Library of Medicine. (n.d.). Bipolar disorder. In StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557877/
- National Library of Medicine. (2024). Bipolar disorder and adolescent development. PubMed Central (PMC). Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11058947/
- World Health Organization. (n.d.). Bipolar disorder. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/bipolar-disorder
Clinically Reviewed By:
Gary Silverman, MA, LMHC, QS, MCAP
Gary brings over two decades of experience in behavioral healthcare, specializing in addiction and mental health treatment. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and former Clinical Director, he has worked across all levels of care, developing innovative programs like a Young Adult track to address the unique needs of 18–30-year-olds.
