Updated : August 1, 2022 2.5 mins read
Updated : August 1, 2022 2.5 mins read
Up to 3% of the Scottish population are thought to be living with bipolar with the average onset being between 15 – 19 years old.
Bipolar is a serious mental health condition which can be difficult for young people to understand, especially if they don’t have the right support and treatment.
Bipolar is characterised by two opposite states; mania and depressive episodes. A person can experience both states, mixed or just one depending on the type of bipolar they have. You can find out more about types and episodes.
Signs that a young person might have bipolar include:
If you work closely with the young person, they might want to share their recovery or treatment plan with you. This will give you an idea of triggers and signs that they might be experiencing an episode of mania or depression. It may also include who to call if you are concerned for their safety.
Other ways to support a young person with bipolar:
Scotland’s national bipolar charity offering information, training and group support for people with bipolar
UK wide bipolar charity offering resources, group support and peer support lines
Information for parents, carers and people working with young people with bipolar
Get Help now
If you are concerned about your mental health, or if you have found yourself feeling concerned about someone else, you can:
Call 111 – NHS 24
Call 116 123 – The Samaritans
Call 0800 83 85 87 – Breathing Space
Text: ‘YM’ to 85258 – Young Minds crisis chat
If you think you are in danger of hurting yourself or other people, you should call 999 or present to your local A&E department.