Bipolar Disorder among Chinese Students and the Role of School Mental Health Education

Adolescent mental health is a major global concern. Many young people live with conditions that begin before adulthood and affect education and relationships. Bipolar disorder ranks as one of the most debilitating of these conditions, characterized by recurring episodes of both elevated and depressed moods. It is associated with early onset, self-harm, and suicide. In response, China has broadened its mental health policies and programs within educational institutions. National surveys show that affective disorders, including bipolar disorder, are present among Chinese school-attending children and adolescents. Yet, most school-based work focuses on depression, anxiety, and general psychological distress. This paper reviews global and Chinese evidence on bipolar disorder in youth, with attention to learning motivation, attention, and academic functioning. It examines how Chinese school mental health education addresses serious mood disorders and identifies gaps in research on bipolar disorder among Chinese students, with implications for policy and practice.