Bipolar Disorder is a specific illness that is classified as a mood disorder. World Health Organization statistics indicate that as of 2019 there were 40 million people living with Bipolar.
Major Depressive Disorder is sometimes referred to as uni-polar depression, AKA “one pole” depression. Bipolar Disorder was once referred to as bi-polar depression, or “two pole” depression because it can include downswings in mood that meet the criteria for Major Depression. But Bipolar Disorder also includes episodes of mania and hypomania as well. These manic and hypomanic symptoms can include euphoria, irritability, racing thoughts, impulsiveness, and a decreased need for sleep.
Suicide attempt rates for bipolar disorder are some of the highest for all mental illnesses, and are estimated to be as high as 50%. Bipolar also has extremely high suicide completion rates, which are around 15%.
There are some very good, well tested, and well tolerated medical treatments for Bipolar Disorder. Unfortunately, a false belief that kids under 18 can’t have Bipolar Disorder often makes it excessively difficult for children and families to find the care they need.
CMHRC is led by and for families living with mental illness. From our dedicated board, to our expert staff, to our enthusiastic volunteers we represent this lived experience. With many decades of combined experience as mental health professionals treating mental illness and as families surviving and thriving with mental illness, we bring a unique and essential perspective to the world of mental health services.
Our programs and services have been developed specifically to support both families and the professionals who treat them. From community building support and educational programs like our monthly Book & Movie Club, to our free monthly webinars and clinical seminars, to high-touch expert services like our Wayfinder Service, to our unique Palliative ParentingTM classes and Childhood Bipolar Conferences, to our invaluable CMHRC Toolkit web-app for tracking symptoms, moods, and medications, we’re here to help families and providers grow, learn, and enjoy the best possible quality of life.
All these offerings are made possible by the incredible support of our CMHRC community. Through charitable giving, you can help to reshape the landscape of children’s mental health for a brighter future full of hope.
