Early-onset bipolar disorder (BD), the onset of mania before age 18, is a highly treatment-refractory form of the disorder marked by frequent recurrences, substantial symptom burden between episodes, social and academic dysfunction, and high suicide risk. This Workshop describes methods of family-focused treatment (FFT) as applied to adolescents with early-onset BD. Attention is given to: 1) mood monitoring and identification of early warning signs of mood cycles; 2) implementation strategies to prevent full recurrence; 3) promotion of consistent sleep/wake habits; 4) medication adherence; 5) how BD differs from normal developmental mood swings; and 6) development of effective family communication and problem-solving skills. Time is allowed for the audience to present cases for discussion.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011: 10:00 AM-1:00 PM