[TheJettSet27]

Hello, everyone!
Okay, so I'm fourteen years old. I know that people typically aren't diagnosed with mental disorders until they're eighteen, BUT...for the last couple of years now, I have noticed something slowly creeping on me.
It started out with a depressive episode (My depressive episodes last for a long time, on average a month or two.) The episode stayed with me for a while - I couldn't estimate how long - when I was hit with what could possibly be called a hypomanic episode. Everything kind of flipped, so to speak; I was happier, more talkative, more energetic. I did many more things than I could have done normal because I was almost NEVER tired. My self-esteem was boosted and I was more confident. Sleep wasn't needed as much, so I was only getting a couple of hours a night. My thoughts raced in my head and I could barely catch onto them; it was a shame because most of them were creative and lively. This phase lasted for a little over a week, and then I went back to normal. Then back into depression.
My possible hypomanic episodes almost never last past a week and a half, each time. My mom also has a mild form of it.
This has been going on for the past couple of years, and its been getting worse with time. My depressive episodes, which used to be fairly mild, are EXTREMELY horrible to go through. I cry for no reason, I'm sluggish and dull, I contemplate suicide...I just don't know how to explain it.
So, I ask for answers and help from everyone else. Could I be experiencing the effects of Bipolar Disorder?
Thanks!

[faerie_moon_x]

Well, we're not doctors here so we can't diagnos you. But from what you say I would recommend getting an appointment to a psychiatrist. Most likely you'll still need to see a pediatric psychiatrist, being 14. But if your mom already has bipolar, you can probably tell her how you've been doing and she can help you.

[hamster-bamster]

Not needing sleep is a very important sign that you might. As Dark Heart said, consult a doctor.

[belledisastre]

I agree with the above answers. I just want to add that you CAN be diagnosed with a mental disorder earlier than age 18. I'm 16 and have been diagnosed with Bipolar II Disorder, GAD, and OCD. They usually hold off on the Bipolar diagnosis though unless it's really evident and severe, the reason being that Bipolar is a rare, chronic, lifelong disorder so they want to know with absolute certainty before they place the diagnosis on you.
Your symptoms seem consistent with Bipolar II Disorder (I know because I have it) but I'm not a doctor, definitely go see a psychiatrist. There's hope for you and mental disorders are very treatable. You just need to take the initiative to go get help. Good luck!

[Victoria'smom]

My son's 10 yr old. He's been dx. bipolar (or) depression w. adhd. He was dx'd when he was 9. Seriously talk to your Doctor to refer you to a psychiatrist.