It’s in the high school and college years that the risk is highest for mental health disorders that can derail a young person’s life: bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder and schizophrenia. They all involve extreme mood swings and erratic, self-destructive behavior. The good news: if we reach teens and young adults before they’re in crisis, it dramatically improves prognosis.

This week on childmind.org we round up the latest thinking on these challenging adolescent-onset disorders, why it’s crucial to notice risk factors and early signs before they develop full-blown symptoms, and how new treatments are making a big difference in outcomes.

Caroline Miller, Editorial Director | ✉

What Is Borderline Personality Disorder?

IDing and treating teenagers with BPD is transforming — and saving — lives.

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Bipolar Disorder: Why It's Often Misdiagnosed

And how behavioral treatment, along with medicine, improves outcomes.

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Watching for Signs of Psychosis in Teens

Caching kids before they're in crisis can reduce impairment.

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Early Treatment for Schizophrenia Improves Outcomes

The right care after a first episode cuts relapses in half.

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How Does CBT Help People With Psychosis?

Specialized therapy helps manage symptoms of schizophrenia.

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DBT: What Is Dialectical Behavior Treatment?

A treatment for teens with serious trouble managing emotions.

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