Premorbid functioning in adolescent onset bipolar I disorder: a preliminary report from an ongoing study

BACKGROUND: This study reports on premorbid academic and peer functioning and psychiatric illness in a rigorously diagnosed sample (N = 28) of adolescent onset bipolar I patients. METHODS: Premorbid functioning was assessed by parental report and review of the Ontario School Record (OSR). Premorbid psychiatric diagnoses were assigned on the basis of all information gathered. RESULTS: Overall, findings suggest that this cohort demonstrates good to excellent peer and academic functioning prior to illness onset. Rates of premorbid psychiatric illnesses were similar to that described in epidemiologic samples. CONCLUSIONS: Results are discussed in relation to current understanding of early onset bipolar illness and directions for future research.