Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder characterised by episodes of mania or hypomania (elevated, expansive, or irritable mood with increased energy) alternating with episodes of depression.
When it emerges in adolescence, it can be difficult to distinguish from typical teenage mood swings or other conditions. Early, accurate diagnosis and specialist management are essential. At Camali Clinic, our consultant psychiatrists provide comprehensive outpatient assessment and long-term management for adolescents with bipolar disorder.
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Manic/Hypomanic Episode Symptoms
Unusually elevated, expansive, or irritable mood lasting days to weeks
Significantly decreased need for sleep without feeling tired
Racing thoughts and rapid, pressured speech
Grandiosity or inflated self-esteem
Impulsive, risky, or unusually reckless behaviour
Increased goal-directed activity or physical agitation
02
Depressive Episode Symptoms
Persistent low mood, emptiness, or irritability
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
Fatigue and low energy
Changes in sleep and appetite
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
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Treatment Approaches
Comprehensive psychiatric assessment and accurate diagnosis – distinguishing bipolar disorder from other mood and behavioural conditions
Mood stabiliser medication management – carefully selected and monitored by a consultant psychiatrist, with regular review
Psychoeducation for the young person and their family – understanding the condition, recognising early warning signs, and developing a mood monitoring plan
CBT for bipolar disorder – developing cognitive and behavioural strategies to manage mood episodes and reduce relapse
Lifestyle and routine support – sleep regulation, routine, and activity pacing are critical in managing bipolar disorder
Family therapy and school liaison where needed
Who needs it?
Who this service is for
Adolescents experiencing significant, recurrent shifts in mood – including episodes of unusually elevated or irritable mood with increased energy, alongside periods of low mood and depression – that are causing clear impairment in daily functioning.
Step-by-Step Support
How we provide the service
Learn how our structured, personalized process guides each individual through assessment, planning, and tailored support to achieve meaningful results.
01
Thorough Psychiatric Assessment
A detailed assessment by a consultant psychiatrist, including longitudinal mood history, family history, and clinical interview with the young person and their parents. Physical investigations are coordinated where needed.
02
Integrated Medication and Therapy Plan
A combined treatment plan is developed, typically involving mood stabiliser medication and psychological support delivered by the psychiatry and psychology teams together.
03
Long-Term Monitoring and Relapse Prevention
Regular psychiatric review, mood monitoring, and relapse prevention planning ensure the young person remains stable and can recognise early warning signs of a new episode.
Our Team
We are here to guide you
Meet the specialists who bring compassion, knowledge, and experience to every aspect of care.
Bipolar disorder is a long-term condition, but with the right treatment and support, most people are able to manage their symptoms and live full, productive lives.
Yes – this is common. Accurate diagnosis requires a thorough assessment that considers the full pattern of mood changes over time. Our consultant psychiatrists are experienced in making this distinction.
Camali Clinic offers compassionate psychiatric, psychology, and therapy services for all ages. Experience personalised care from our mental health experts.