Adolescence is a tricky time for parents and their kids, there are so many physical and emotional changes going on that need to be navigated with care. For teens with bipolar disorder, the trials of puberty can be magnified tenfold. They are dealing with their rapidly changing bodies and trying to find a sense of balance in their lives while struggling with a chemical disorder that keeps them (and those around them) guessing as to how they feel today. Bipolar disorder is not a problem that goes away with time, so it's important for parents to help their teens develop healthy coping strategies. Getting solid coping skills in place early will help them to develop a more productive and happier life as adults.
Teens suffering from bipolar disorder should be encouraged to talk about what is going on in their heads. It's difficult to listen to your child talk about feelings of depression, but they need to know it is ok to express those feelings. It can help your child to process those emotions if they feel safe speaking about them out loud, even if those feelings include thoughts of self-harm. The act of talking can deflate the power of the negative feelings and you can help to put them into perspective. It will also help you stay in touch with where your teen is in their bipolar cycle. If there are support groups for families of teens with bipolar disorder, the parents may find it helpful to join them. It can be enlightening to see how other families are coping with the challenges of bipolar illness, and provide a much needed sense of camaraderie.
While your teen's visits to their psychiatrist should remain confidential, it is good to ask to be included on discussions of medications or possible side effects. These are issues that your teen will need help monitoring. Some find that keeping a medication diary can help pinpoint when things are working well and when they aren't working at all. Make an agreement with your teen to keep a medication diary that includes dosages, times, and how they feel that day. The information doesn't need to be intrusive or detailed, simple mood indicators work best. Encourage your teen to keep a private diary as well, one that they may use to go into further detail. They can use their private diary as part of their long term coping mechanism - identifying triggers and feelings in their early stages can keep them from growing out of control.
It is most important that your teen understand that while they have a disorder, they are still capable of achieving great things. There are many books available which highlight the lives of great artists and leaders who suffered from bipolar disorder. Proper treatment and coping skills can go a long way in ensuring a healthy, prosperous life.
