Management of Bipolar Affective Disorder with Anxious Distress

Treatment Approach

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry recommends that for severe mania or depression nonresponsive to medications, ECT may be considered in adolescents and adults 1, 2
The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry suggests that psychosocial interventions, such as psychoeducational, family-focused therapy, and cognitive-behavioral approaches, are essential adjuncts to pharmacotherapy and promote medication compliance, reduce relapse rates, and address functional impairments 1, 2

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry recommends essential monitoring for atypical antipsychotics, including baseline measurements of body mass index, waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting glucose, and fasting lipid panel, and follow-up measurements at regular intervals 2
The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry advises monitoring for extrapyramidal side effects, including tardive dyskinesia, and watching for neuroleptic malignant syndrome (hyperpyrexia, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, autonomic instability) 2