Disclaimer: This article is based on research and insights from credible medical professionals, publications, and institutions. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. If you believe you may be experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder, please consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Ebony Emotions is dedicated to supporting Black and Brown individuals on their journey through life while navigating the complexities of bipolar disorder. Understanding your condition is essential—not only for managing your mental health, but also for sustaining meaningful relationships, friendships, and day-to-day life.

It’s important to recognize that bipolar disorder doesn’t look the same for everyone. My own path reflects that complexity. At 17, I was hospitalized and diagnosed with depression. At 19, I was told I had severe depression and anxiety. In my early 20s, I believed I might have borderline personality disorder—a misdiagnosis that’s unfortunately common for many living with bipolar disorder. It wasn’t until I was 26, under the care at New York University, that I finally received an accurate diagnosis—after nearly a decade of confusion and misdirection.

My hope is that you don’t have to wait as long as I did to get the clarity and care you deserve. For the Ebony Emotions community—especially for parents, caregivers, and teens—recognizing the early signs of bipolar disorder can make a life-changing difference.

📘 Mark your calendar: My e-book and workbook, The Letters BD Are For Bipolar Disorder, will be available on May 1st. With that in mind, let’s dive into what those early signs may look like.

Early Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder Include:

• Depression: As I experienced, depression can emerge in adolescence and may precede episodes of mania (bipolar I) or hypomania (bipolar II).

• Altered Speech Patterns: Young individuals with bipolar disorder may exhibit rapid speech and frequently shift topics mid-conversation during manic episodes.

• Increased Energy: Sudden bursts of energy may lead to the initiation of multiple projects or ideas within minutes. However, while a young person may impulsively begin something with intense focus, they may struggle to complete the task.

• Impulsivity: Personally, I’ve experienced financial hardship due to impulsive decisions. It’s important to recognize that as individuals enter their 20s, bipolar disorder symptoms can intensify. During manic episodes, adolescents may engage in reckless behaviors with lasting consequences, such as risky financial choices or impulsive sexual encounters.

• Irritability: I regretfully admit that bipolar disorder has caused me to experience intense bursts of anger and aggression toward loved ones.

These are the foundational symptoms commonly observed during the early stages of bipolar disorder (University of Utah Health, 2022). Now, let’s take a look at the statistics.

The National Institute of Mental Health reports that approximately one percent of adolescents between the ages of 13 and 18 meet the criteria for bipolar disorder or cyclothymia (National Institute of Mental Health, 2012). Moreover, 20% of adolescents with severe depression go on to develop bipolar disorder within five years (Birmaher et al., 1996).

Conclusion

Families must understand that while there is no cure for bipolar disorder, there are a wealth of treatment options and resources available. Drawing from my own experiences, young individuals with bipolar disorder may require hospitalization, medication, and regular therapy to effectively manage their symptoms.

Furthermore, seeking out a psychiatrist who is equipped to provide an accurate diagnosis is of paramount importance. I highly recommend Psychology Today, a trusted platform that allows you to find certified and reputable mental health professionals based on various factors such as race, religious beliefs, insurance, and mental health conditions. This tool is invaluable because it enables you to tailor your search to your specific needs. For teens, I suggest engaging in this process with your parent(s) or guardian(s).

Recognizing the early signs of bipolar disorder can help dispel years of confusion regarding mental health struggles and set you on a path toward treatment and healing.

References: 

Birmaher, B., Ryan, N. D., Williamson, D. E., Brent, D. A., Kaufman, J., Dahl, R. E., Perel, J., & Nelson, B. (1996). Childhood and Adolescent Depression: A Review of the Past 10 Years. Part I. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 35(11), 1427–1439. https://doi.org/10.1097/00004583-199611000-00011

National Institute of Mental Health. (2012, June 18). Rate of Bipolar Symptoms Among Teens Approaches That of Adults. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/science-updates/2012/rate-of-bipolar-symptoms-among-teens-approaches-that-of-adults‌

University of Utah Health. (2022, February 16). Bipolar Symptoms in Teens: Early Signs and Diagnosis. University of Utah Health. https://healthcare.utah.edu/healthfeed/2022/02/bipolar-symptoms-teens-early-signs-and-diagnosis