About 14 percent of young people experience diagnosable mood disorders. About two-thirds of these young people are undiagnosed and untreated, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
Their struggles and failures at home and at school will continue until diagnosis and treatment occur. Their symptoms of mania, erratic behavior and depression are often misconstrued as teen drama or angst. Untreated mood disorders can lead to suicide, substance abuse, risky sexual behaviors and more.
What are mood disorders? They include major depressive disorder, dysthymic disorder (long-term minor depression) and bipolar disorder. More details on these disorders are available at the NIMH website.
A recent NIMH study confirmed that the rate of bipolar disorder in older teens (3.1 percent) is similar to that in adults (3.9 percent). This breakthrough research confirms that assessment and diagnosis are important. Teens with these disorders will not grow out of them.
Help spread the word
You can make a difference by spreading the word and urging young people and their families to seek help. With treatment, youth and families can experience success. Our agency’s licensed and experienced staff is available to start youth and families on the road to recovery regardless of their ability to pay.
For more information, call any time of day or night at 918.394.CALM when a crisis occurs. Our children’s services are available Monday through Friday at 918.492.2554 to guide youth and families through assessment, diagnosis, treatment, medication management, behavioral health modification and more.